A/N: Thanks to chem prof for his beta work.
Chapter 14: Afterwards
"This is it." Hermione said with her head in a large, musty tome. One hand held it aloft; the second tracked her progress down the page. "It has it all: the gradual increase in desire for the target, the memory erasing, and the mood swings." She looked up and gave Harry a half smile. "At least now we know exactly what we were dealing with. It explains a lot of our actions from the past six weeks."
Harry nodded in response, though without enthusiasm. He was exhausted.
It was two days hence the confrontation with Ginny. Hermione had secluded herself into the Library the following morning and had barely emerged since, according to reports from an ever present Neville. Harry had spent most of the time in his dorm, pacing or just laying there trying to sort out everything that had happened and make sense of it all. His mind was still a mess, but he was definitely better.
"Says here," continued Hermione. "That the spell was originally created in the 900s and has been extensively modified in years since. However, in the 1700s it..." Hermione paused and looked up at Harry and the gathered DA members behind him. "It was considered to be very dangerous and users should be reported to the proper authorities."
Harry, Susan, Hannah, Padma, Neville, Katie, Ernie, Daphne, Luna and Su all wore different expressions ranging from concentration, apprehension, disgust, loathing, sorrow and satisfaction.
"You won't believe how long it took me to find this book." Hermione said with a weary smile. She had worked almost non-stop in her search and only upon Padma and Su's insistence had she retired for a few hours sleep in the previous night.
This particular tome was found in the Restricted Section. Professor McGonagall had not known about the spell when Hermione had asked for an approval signature to search the Restricted Section. A fair bit of nifty explanation on the spot had assuaged the Professor's fears and questions, and Hermione had found the spell a few hours later.
After dinner, the DA had assembled in the Room and the story of the confrontation with Ginny was related. The reactions involved were a mixture of curses, threats, speculation regarding if the Weasleys' only daughter was under the Imperius, and several spells destroying various pieces of furniture thought up for that specific purpose.
"Unbelievable," Ernie muttered, slapping his hands down on the table with the thick, old tome, causing Hermione to jump at the sudden noise. "Unbelievable that someone would sink so low to cast magic to gain one's attention. Haven't we been taught by Professor Slughorn that love isn't fabricated?"
"We have," said Susan distastefully. "She's a year younger, remember. She may not have had the same lecture, or a variation."
Ernie absorbed that piece of information. "That doesn't change the fact that she should know better, as a pureblood, the limitations of magic. I can't understand her attitude. How can one imagine that this would work?"
"It happens," Padma responded solemnly, sitting on one of the arms of a burgundy couch. "Desperation and obsession mingled together drive people beyond what they are normally capable of. Morals are of less importance in the face of desperation and obsession."
"And she was desperate," Harry spoke up from the rightmost spot on the couch next to Padma, his arm running his hand through his hair, no less solemnly than Padma was speaking. "She put everything on the line in the use of that spell."
"Ginny was long lost to her desire, Harry," Luna added soberly from a cushion on the floor to the right of a table in front of Harry, between himself and Hermione. Ernie was standing on the right end of the table, facing the odd girl curiously. "By the time she used that spell, there was no other course of action than the one that progressed."
"The question is what we do about her?" said Daphne, bluntly, from the other arm rest on the burgundy couch. Slowly Harry turned to face the Slytherin, not from disinterest but from exhaustion. His mind was unable to perform at one hundred percent yet, and he was physically exhausted – a combination of a lack of sleep and his attitude mixing within his state of mind.
"The book says the spell should be reported," Neville replied, crossing his arms and furrowing his brow. "If that is the case, the spell is either illegal, or the author believes it should be. There would be a punishment for it. It may involve a heavy fine, a magically binding order, or even prison time. From memory, spells of this caliber and intention are heavily frowned upon, pureblood or not, and Ginny would not get off lightly for her use of it. It's a wonder why any and all love spells or potions are legal. It's like using a less effective Imperius."
Katie shook her head from her position behind Hermione. "Most love spells or potions last only a few hours at most, depending on the dose. This spell is long term, and by the sound of this line," she reached down behind Hermione, and after a moment, opened the book to the correct page, pointing to the line she was referring to. "'…and one of few to have a permanent effect for as long as the focus's wand remains intact' may even be permanent if the spell isn't removed. Overdoing it as she did only made the spell far more powerful than it was meant to be."
"That doesn't answer the question," Susan said sharply from the left most part of the burgundy couch, her tone catching most of the group by surprise. "She cast this spell on Harry and, for all we know, would have enslaved him for the rest of his life."
"What Susan is trying to say," Hannah added quickly from her spot between Susan and Harry, her hands resting on Susan's shoulder, trying to calm her rare temper. "Is that Ginny should face up to what she's done and accept the consequences for her actions. This spell doesn't allow someone to act or react normally. It wasn't a question of when, but a matter of time before Harry would be seriously injured because he couldn't function properly."
Daphne had raised the all important question. What should be done about Ginny? Hermione had no answer. Her actions were inexcusable, there was no denying that. However, it had appeared that Ginny did not understand the implications of her actions until Harry had spelled it out for her. That was when her dreams were shattered and she had opened up in her defeat.
She had seen it, and so had Harry, in Ginny's eyes when she had finally told them everything and Harry had told her what she had lost. There was nothing but deep sorrow there. There was nothing but remorse there. There was nothing but regret there.
The problem was that she had never felt remorse or regret when she was seconds away from having Harry take her right there in that unused room on the second floor.
She had wanted it, desired it, and the end, to her, had justified the means.
So what was the right thing to do? The same question was running through both Harry and Hermione's minds, and the answers were uncertain.
With the revelation out, the one thing the two desired was for all it to be over. They did not desire revenge or vengeance – perhaps strangely so, perhaps not. All the two wished was to be left alone to return to their lives and concentrate on their futures.
But that wasn't exactly practical. Something had to be done.
"This is Harry's decision," Hermione said facing him. Then she added firmly, "And his decision will be final since he has been the most affected by this. We will accept his choice. Agreed?"
There were a few nods and a few yes's from the group who all turned to face Harry.
Harry was silent for a length period of time. His intense look of concentration was the sole reason he was not badgered by anyone, including the less patient female of the group.
Harry's decision weighed heavily for the future of Ginny Weasley. His decision could destroy her education and have far-reaching effects into her real world life, given the opportunity if Voldemort would be defeated, and equally so he could rescue it from that fate.
After what seemed an age to everyone awaiting his response, Harry sighed deeply and closed his eyes. He opened his mouth and spoke four words that generated the biggest argument between all of them since the group formed two months prior.
"I won't do anything."
Hermione inwardly sighed with relief, a small smile crossing her face as the room erupted around her. She was relieved that Harry was still the same man she knew, and would not become vindictive and vengeful because of his experiences.
To some extent each of the DA members understood the very thoughts that Hermione had had, that by answering this way Harry was still the same Harry; however that didn't prevent them from being outraged by it.
"Harry," Susan pleaded after a chorus of 'what?' echoed throughout the room. "Why? You know what she did to you. How could you let her get off scot free?"
"Are you sure Harry?" Hannah added a moment later. "What if she tries something different? Putting an end to it now is the safest way."
"Is that really the wisest course of action?" Ernie said seriously. "We know she's capable of this. What else is she capable of?"
"Her 'love' for you isn't going to disappear just like that," Katie said, clicking her fingers to illustrate her point.
As hopelessly distracted and tired as he was, Harry knew that none of them were really angry with him, merely the fact that Ginny would get off without any significant punishment.
"I am going to speak to Dumbledore about all this," Harry spoke, interrupting the torrent of responses turned debate after a full minute of a furious exchange of words. "I will leave her punishment in his hands."
Most of the complaints died away almost immediately. It did not escape his attentions that Daphne, from whom Harry had anticipated the most vocal resistance, or at least the most blunt and offensive resistance, had remained silent, choosing instead to survey him curiously. He returned her gaze for a moment, curious as to her silence.
"I'm quite sure Ginny is regretting what she did with every ounce of her soul –" Harry began to answer the group, returning his focus to them.
"– Not for the right reasons," Susan muttered, her arms crossed and her attitude sour.
"-There's no reason to bother taking this to… um, Wizengamot, or wherever." Harry continued, ignoring Susan. "I'm not going to drag her, Hermione and myself up there to testify to put Ginny in Azkaban or anything of the sort. After seeing what it did to Sirius, I would wish that only on a very few people, and Ginny isn't one of them."
Ernie attempted to interrupt, but Harry continued before he could. "Yes, she may attempt something else. Equally so, she may not. For now, I'd like to believe she will not. What's done is done and it can't be undone. But, as someone pointed out to me recently –" he gave Daphne the briefest of glances. "– It isn't worth dwelling on anymore. I will speak with Dumbledore, whatever comes of that will be the end. I will move on."
"You're weak, Potter," Daphne said bluntly, voicing her opinion at last. Harry faced her, immediately ticked off. "Weasley is a threat. Keeping her from serious punishment gives her the impression she still has a chance. She will try again."
"For once I have to agree with Daphne," Hannah said quietly. Her voice carried in the silence following Daphne's proclamation, drawing her several looks.
"That's enough," Hermione said authoritatively. "Harry's made his choice and you all agreed to stand by it."
Daphne glared at Hermione, her lips twitching in what appeared to be a barely successful attempt at preventing herself from retorting.
"Carry on, then," Ernie said, looking at Daphne, baiting her. "Share what you got to say."
He was silenced with one look from the Slytherin. Everyone now knew she had the power to back up any threats and had no real wish to cross her on such menial matters.
"This is the last I'll say on the matter, alright?" Harry said, eyes briefly catching the others in the room, preventing anymore interruptions. "Ginny, however misguided, has been a friend for a few years. She has helped me when I needed her help, and had been a… decent… friend."
He faced Daphne fully and stared deep into her eyes. "I disagree with you. You did not see her. She was defeated, she had given up."
Daphne maintained his gaze, crossing her arms challengingly. "You're right, I did not see her," she conceded. "This may be the case here and if so, I can accept that. However, Potter, if you want to succeed with this group of yours, you will have to ensure your enemies do not have a second chance."
She had a point. It was, though, a former friend, and that complicated matters, in his opinion.
"You're far too soft, Potter," Daphne added in the same blunt tone, standing up. Harry could tell she didn't mean it as a critical remark this time, merely an observation.
Harry grimaced and adjusted his glasses. "You're not exactly channelling your usual persona either, Miss Greengrass, helping me and all. You might be getting soft too."
There were occasions in life when you just knew you did something stupid. For Harry, this was one of them.
Harry turned to face Daphne head-on, sensing something very, very dangerous emanating from her. It was once he'd gained eye contact with the temperamental Slytherin that he understood just what a mistake he had made.
"Watch your mouth, Potter," Daphne retorted, facing flushing with a mixture of embarrassment and anger – and perhaps something more. "Or I'll rip it out and stick it up your…"
"Hey, hey," Neville interrupted before the sentence could be complete, stepping forward, hands raised in a gesture of peace. "There's no need to go down that road."
Daphne rounded on Neville, blonde hair twisting and hitting her neck and shoulder with the sharp turn. Hermione inwardly winced, knowing Neville would regret opening his mouth in a second.
"Want to try me, Longbottom?" Daphne said darkly. "Think you have the balls to back up Potter here against me?"
Even without their recent history of heated comments, it wasn't a surprise that Neville clenched his jaw shut and merely glowered at Daphne. For several moments he kept it up before Daphne, sick of it, sent him her own glower that would've scared a lion had her temperament been directed on it.
To everyone's surprise, Harry laughed at the two of them. Daphne whirled around to face him.
"What's so damn funny, Potter?" she demanded, eyes glowing in the same dangerous manner.
"Nothing you need to be concerned about, Daphne," Harry said carelessly as he removed his glasses and wiped his eyes, replacing the glasses afterwards.
Perhaps on any other day, Daphne wouldn't have accepted such an answer. Today, though, she let it slide after a long visual examination. Daphne began pacing slowly, preoccupied. A small silence enveloped the room.
"Where do we head from here?" her small voice carried through the silence quite clearly.
"We get back to work, don't we?" Harry replied immediately.
"No," Hermione said while shaking her head, startling Harry. "We," she continued while gesturing to all but Harry. "Go back to work. You on the other hand are taking time off." Harry was opening his mouth to respond when Padma interrupted him.
"She's right, Harry, you more than any of us need to take a break." Padma placed an arm tentatively on his shoulder. For a moment she expected Harry to tell her to let him go and to see the anger in his eyes again.
Harry looked up at her and she looked deep into his green eyes through the now famous glasses of his. There was no anger in there, but there was happiness, relief and, still, traces of sadness.
Padma smiled at him. "Take a week off, Harry. We've come a long way since we started. There's no point in running ourselves into the ground practicing if we're unable to get up long enough to mount a defence when the time comes."
Hannah placed a hand on his other shoulder. Harry turned to her. "We all appreciate everything you've done for us. Now let us do something for you. Hermione can lead us for a little bit, and then you can take over again in the last weeks before Christmas."
"Go to class, go to your extra lessons, sort everything out," Susan added from behind Hannah. "And then spend some time just having fun."
Harry looked up at the rest of the group, seeing they were all in agreement. Still emotionally exhausted, he blinked away the possible emergence of tears – exhaustion or emotional, it didn't matter – and smiled gratefully at the group.
"Thanks."
-x-x-x-x-x-
"Your experiences at Hogwarts, Harry, are numerous and eventful." Dumbledore stated in a matter-of-fact tone.
Harry was seated in the Headmaster's office a few hours after he had left the Room of Requirement. The fireplace in the office provided comfortable warmth where Harry could relate the events of the past couple weeks to the Headmaster in comfort.
"You certainly have a unique outlook on events, sir," Harry replied, partially amused and partially irritated by the remark. His opinion of the man was still in a state of flux, and while the lighthearted humor would have been appreciated perhaps on a different day, presently it did nothing for him.
"I am aware of the spell young Miss Weasley performed on you," Dumbledore informed his sole audience – the former Headmasters' portraits forgotten. "I must admit that I am surprised that there are those out there still that are aware of the spell. From memory, it has not been recorded in use since several decades before my birth." Dumbledore let out a small chuckle while reaching for and extracting a lemon drop from their ever-present home on his desk. "That, however, is not an indicator of all spell use, of course."
"The book Hermione found stated that use was to be reported," Harry explained, slumping a bit in his chair from tiredness. "What is the penalty for using it?"
"I'm afraid the consequences of informing the Ministry would be quite severe, Harry." Dumbledore revealed. "There would be an inquest into the length of time the spell was in use, the damage the spell caused, and the source, and the severity of the sentencing would be determined by the information gathered."
"Azkaban is a possibility then?" asked Harry straightforwardly. Dumbledore stopped all movement and examined Harry closely, carefully.
"I sincerely hope, Harry, that you do not wish Miss Weasley to be sentenced to Azkaban," Dumbledore said softly and precisely. "You should be aware of the horrors that place holds from your own experiences. Miss Weasley would relive her possession by Voldemort and her betrayal repeatedly, day in and day out. She may not be able to survive her incarceration."
"I had not thought of that," Harry admitted, though he had never truly considered the option of pressing that far. His bluntness had been misinterpreted though.
"What do you suggest her punishment be, Harry?" inquired Dumbledore curiously. His answer would provide insight into the state of mind of his most important charge.
"Honestly, sir, I don't want to make much more of this than has already happened," Harry further admitted. "I just want to put this behind me and move forward. I have been convinced that something does need to be done, though."
"An understandable and relieving reaction," replied Dumbledore with a warm smile. "From what I am able to gather, you are working your way through this quite well on your own, as is Miss Granger. I am pleased to hear that you do not wish to destroy Miss Weasley's future because of her actions."
"Yes, sir,"
"But I'm afraid as Headmaster; I will have to enforce a punishment," Dumbledore added solemnly. Harry sat up straight again. The two held each other's gaze. "Love potions are fickle concoctions, Harry. Some, as you are no doubt aware, take them far beyond practical jokes and, if I may, immature fancy. As Headmaster, I cannot allow Miss Weasley's actions to occur on a second occasion."
"I understand, sir."
"Miss Weasley will henceforth be confined to her own dorm room at all non-class and meal times. A house-elf will be watching over her at all times and will provide an escort to and from her classes and meals – out of sight, but they will be there, and Miss Weasley will not be aware of them. Miss Weasley will not be able to partake in any extra-circular activities and will spend the remainder of her fifth year away from her fellow students. Her behavior will be monitored at all times and at the end of the next term, she will be re-evaluated and her future will then be determined."
Harry absorbed the rundown of the punishment. Dumbledore was not a man to expel students if he could help it, which was not uncommon knowledge, and this was a continuation of that trend.
"I pray that Miss Weasley has the smarts to understand her mistake and learn from it," Dumbledore intoned, growing serious. "Some magics are better left buried, Harry, and this is one of those. I would want nothing more than Miss Weasley to learn from her mistake, but the use of this spell and the implications of it are unacceptable."
Harry nodded his understanding.
"I will leave it up to you whether or not any action will be partaken on Mr. Weasley." Dumbledore intoned. "He has been punished already, and from what you have told me he has been severely affected by these events. It is of my opinion that sometimes it is enough that realization and personal guilt equate to an adequate punishment."
Harry sent him an inquiring gaze.
"This view is not shared by everyone, I know." Dumbledore responded. "As I said, it is your decision completely regarding Mr. Weasley."
Harry drifted into a long silence.
"You may dwell on this if you must, Harry." Dumbledore continued. "The option is will be there until you make your decision. Think on it."
"I will." Harry replied after a beat.
"Lastly, I will ask that you leave Mrs. Weasley and her… actions for me to deal with, Harry."
Harry sent the Headmaster a quizzical look.
"The private lives of my fellow Order members are that, Harry, private." Dumbledore spoke calmly but authoritatively. "Such actions, however, cannot be allowed to continue and remain unpunished."
Harry studied the Headmaster for a long moment, attempting to discern what actions he would take, or if he would take any at all. Harry believed that Dumbledore wouldn't let him come in any danger again from any outside influences, well meaning allies or otherwise.
Given the chance, Harry had no idea what he would do with Mrs. Weasley. He had no idea her motives, her reasons or her mentality behind her choices, and may never know. He might regret doing something or he might regret doing nothing. This was not something he could decide right now.
"Does all that sound reasonable to you?" inquired Dumbledore, honestly seeking the opinion of the student directly involved.
"Yes sir." Harry replied with a tired, final nod of the head.
And that was that.
-x-x-x-x-x-
The evening following the meeting with Dumbledore, Hermione had pulled Harry aside after dinner to talk. Yet another unused classroom found itself occupied by Harry and at least one of his friends for a private conversation. Harry merely chose to think of it as less compromising than a broom closet.
Thank you, Justin and Megan, for implanting those thoughts in my head.
The standard charms later and Hermione was facing Harry, who was seated on a chair behind an abandoned, dusty table in the front row. There were a dozen other chairs around, a few toppled over, and a large table in the front of the room where the professor would've sat.
Harry's gaze drifted around the room for a minute before focusing his attention on Hermione. Now that it had come to the time to talk, Harry and Hermione were both silent. In Harry's mind, this was an all too similar situation to when he was wondering what he could possibly say to Fleur after he left France. How could this conversation start?
"It was an emotional moment," Hermione finally blurted out.
"It was," Harry replied gruffly.
"We – I needed to be close to you again after this disaster of a first term," Hermione continued, unaware of Harry's reply. "I think in our fragile state …" she trailed off.
"We nearly kissed," Harry added helpfully.
"Right," Hermione said, hearing him this time, and becoming noticeably more uncomfortable. "And that was simply a moment were two teenagers were vulnerable and, as a male and female, sought comfort with each other. It is something that happens, and –"
"-There's no need to worry, Hermione," Harry interrupted with a small smile at her flustered state. "It's okay. I don't feel anything peculiar towards you… well, not that I did for a long time before, but you know what I mean. We're still friends. If we can survive as long as we did under that spell, we can survive a near kiss, extenuating circumstances and all."
Hermione was stunned for a moment, and then beamed. "Thank goodness." She looked happier than he had seen her in some time.
"Here," Harry said, taking his ring off his right ring finger and throwing it to Hermione, who scrambled to catch it against her robes. "That should make it easier for you to get meetings together without me."
"Honestly Harry, we're not excluding you or anything," began Hermione testily. Harry couldn't resist smiling at her, and she halted her lecture. Things were already returning to normal.
The two were then silent, enjoying a, finally, comfortable silence together for a moment. But it did have to end.
"Come on, you've got essays to do and I've got a lesson with Flitwick," Harry said as he stood up, acting as he normally would around her – that alone important.
He, after only hesitating a second, laid a hand on Hermione's shoulder as he drew level with her. She enveloped him in a gentle, brief hug. She withdrew quickly, however, nerves or something else the reason why.
Their friendship with each other had then begun to mend to the extent they were able to interact nearly in the same manner they had before the entire ordeal had started, with only minor awkwardness between them. It had been a surprisingly easy task, all in all. But they spent more time together than they had been so far, even if it was predominantly in silence while Hermione worked, and that had helped.
The topic of their near kiss had not been broached again in any conversation. By unspoken agreement, the two of them understood each other's motives behind the act and their enthusiasm for it. The two of them understood they had needed comfort, Hermione especially, and the massive initial release of emotions was still affecting them when Harry was talking about Fleur. Since they had returned to their former friendship, there was little reason to bring it up again. It did not, however, leave their minds completely, contributing to some of their awkwardness.
But they were on the mend. The two weren't as close as they had been at the start of the year, and both were disappointed by that fact. Their friendship had kept them going from their first year to the present, and losing that was inconceivable and disastrous for both. However, the events of the term had forced them to take several steps back. It would take some more time, but they would return to their former friendship, and nothing would interfere with that this time.
They had made their mistake. And it was one that would not be repeated.
-x-x-x-x-x-
Winter in all its glory arrived with a sudden week long snowstorm. For Herbology, classes were reduced to theory work when numerous students simply decided against braving the weather to reach the greenhouses. The warmth provided by the hundreds of fires in the castle was more than enough enticement for Professor Sprout as well.
Schoolwork had gone amazingly well for Harry this term. Perhaps it was the lack of pressure of homework, the additional lessons, or a bit of both, that resulted in this. Regardless, he was near top of the class in classes other than Defense for the first time.
Harry continued to use the Half-Blood Prince's book in potions, to the occasional ire of Hermione, who had finally given the book topic a rest when she found the argument about it paled in comparison to everything else that had, and was, happening in their lives. The only times she would bring up the book were when Harry pointed out a spell or incantation in the margins.
There was one spell amongst the group, besides the Muffliato spell, that Harry wanted to test out. The incantation was 'Sectumsempra' and a little note beside it said 'for enemies'. Harry certainly had a lot of them and wondered if, or more accurately when, he would find himself in yet another confrontation with said enemies. Whether or not he would actually perform the spell, which Hermione warned him could be something Dark or deadly, to which Harry actually listened, was another matter entirely. He imagined finding himself with no alternative but to use the spell more than once when he found himself daydreaming. The results, though, were never clear in these reveries.
During the same period of time Harry's thoughts had sorted themselves out and he was able to recognize and understand everything in his mind once more. His sudden exhaustion, physically and mentally, had abated.
A fortnight went quickly, and Harry was at the helm of the DA once again. The following month went just as quickly for Harry, though not for everyone else who still had end of term exams or projects that needed to be completed.
In that sense he had offered to help Hermione with hers, despite knowing that theory, no matter how more focused he was, wasn't his forte. The studious Gryffindor politely declined, claiming that she enjoyed the satisfaction of completing each and every task on her own.
Hogwarts itself had changed dramatically in appearance in the last couple of weeks. Christmas trees, tinsel, baubles, ice sculptures and other assorted decorations for the winter holiday were erected. Peeves was up to his usual mischief this holiday season, managing to create an entirely original set of limericks and lyrics for the enchanted suits of armor to speak instead of the proper, programmed words. As a prefect, Harry was subjugated to the task of canceling the old lyrics and restoring the original ones, giving him plenty of contemplative time as the monotonous task became just that.
Over the last three weeks the inhabitants of Hogwarts had also changed. Without any homework or DA to keep Harry busy, he began to notice the subtle change in attitude in every student as the holidays drew nearer. There was a sudden rise in stress that led to a few arguments amongst the shorter tempered students as end of term exams or project dates drew nearer. After those there was a sudden change to happiness and excitement with little to no school work left between the students and Christmas time.
Very few students ventured outside at this point of the year. Various reasons explained that, including an increased amount of homework and assignments due, and the sheer coldness of the weather. Harry was quite content to lounge about in front of the fires the castle offered except for one or two odd occasions when he felt the need to move further than from class to class.
Since everyone had told him to take a break, he'd done exactly that. For once he didn't feel up to being stubborn and training in secret. Hermione and the rest knew of the existence of the Marauder's Map and Invisibility Cloak and would've found him out eventually if he snuck off to practice magic. He attended classes like normal, attended his extra lessons with Slughorn, McGonagall and Flitwick like normal and even performed near top of the class like his new normal. But he did rest and found himself sleeping better.
He also spent his time just socializing with some of his new and old friends, something he had done not enough of. He got to know them more, and found that he got along better with certain people than others.
The break had done Harry some good. While fears of losing against Voldemort and getting his friends killed were not far from his mind, regardless of what anyone would ever say to him, the Gryffindor had been able to relax properly for the first time in weeks. Stress and his pain from all that had happened in the first term washed away slowly over the three weeks. It was a magnificent feeling, in Harry's opinion, to just sit down and relax, pushing the entire myriad of negative and war related thoughts in his head aside for a period, and get some rest and relaxation.
There were only three real noteworthy events that happened to Harry during the rest of the term outside of his extra work with McGonagall, Flitwick and Slughorn. Not even a week earlier Romilda Vane made an appearance and offered Harry some Gillywater, which he politely declined, followed by a box of cupcakes that were laced with Firewhiskey, apparently, a few days later. After hearing much of the gossip around the school thanks to Susan, Hannah and Katie, Harry was well aware that Romilda Vane was one of the many students contemplating using influencing potions on him. After everything that had happened, Harry held nothing but contempt for those that tried, but politely accepted the gift and tucked it away in a deep, dark corner of his trunk to dispose of at a later date, and resisted the urge to do anything less polite.
The second was Su Li. He and the extremely shy and silent girl had had their longest conversation to date one afternoon in the Owlery, as Harry was paying Hedwig a long overdue visit, a fortnight prior.
Snow blanketed the landscape from one end of the mountains to the other. Every year it was the same, white from end to end of his sight lines. It was beautiful and haunting at the same. The striking whiteness of the snow covering up the landscapes worried him about what other secrets were out there that he should, and needed, to know.
The inside of the Owlery was kept snow free and had constant Warming Charms on the walls to keep the owls from freezing. Hedwig was present and as soon as she caught sight of her master, she flew off her perch and landed gracefully on his outstretched arm. She playfully nipped at his clothes, a sign of affection he was familiar with.
Harry sat down and, for some time, stroked Hedwig, occasionally mentioning to his familiar what was happening in his life at the moment. Hedwig, as always, listened intently, seemingly able to understand every word.
After what felt like an hour, the sounds of snow crunching beneath boots hit Harry's ears above the din of the constant owl hooting.
Harry looked up to see Su, her mid-length dark brown hair trailing behind her in the wind, standing at the doorway, looking up into the rafters in search of an owl. She spotted Harry a moment after he did her.
"Hi Su," said Harry with a wave. Hedwig hooted a greeting and proceeded to fly over to Su and land on her shoulder. Su blinked rapidly at the sudden addition and sent Harry a questioning gaze.
"She knows who you are, knows I trust you," Harry explained. "Su, this is Hedwig. Hedwig, Su."
Still slightly surprised at the owl, Su reached up, hesitated, and then gently stroked it. She smiled as the owl gave a quiet hoot in response to the treatment.
Harry watched the two interact for a moment. He then shuffled over and offered Su a spot on the ground next to him.
Taking up the offer, Su sat down beside Harry slowly, trying not to dislodge or frighten the snowy owl on her shoulder.
"Have you not an owl of your own?" asked Harry, watching her hesitancy regarding his owl.
Su shook her head.
"Are you sending a letter to someone?" asked Harry again, maintaining his attention on her expressions, the only way he knew to understand her.
Su scrunched her face up slightly and, after a moment, nodded.
"Do you want to borrow Hedwig? I doubt she'd mind the trip."
Hedwig hooted in response and titled her head to the side. A second louder, sharper hoot sounded from above. Looking up, Harry saw the same brown owl as before watching Hedwig from a few meters up.
"He doesn't quit, does he?" remarked Harry. Hedwig hooted several times in what he took to be frustration.
To his surprise, Su laughed.
"Your owl is having her own problems?" inquired Su in her ever quiet voice. "A tough term all round?"
"Seems so," responded Harry, not as surprised as he used to be about her voice. Harry hesitated and decided to act on his curiosity. "Can I ask you something personal?" he added seriously.
For a long time, Su examined Harry, probably trying to discern his question. Then, getting her answer, she opened her mouth and spoke.
"I –" Su began hoarsely. Immediately she paused, cleared her throat and resumed.
"I don't talk much for a number of reasons, Harry," Su said, still quietly, but more coherently than ever before. "Padma, before now, is the only Hogwarts student that I converse with aloud regularly."
"Why?"
Su hesitated again. Harry, in a stroke of growing maturity and understanding of being around females, didn't press or back down and let her decide if she would respond or not.
"My vocal chords never fully developed as a child," Su responded after a fashion, beginning to pet Hedwig again. With her other hand, she gently brushed her fingers over her throat. "I couldn't properly communicate verbally with anyone until I was nearly nine years old and after a long treatment. By then, I had become accustomed to communicating through facial expressions. I found that those who truly attempted to get to know me as a mute were the few people I could truly count as friends."
"Wasn't it lonely?"
"Of course," Su replied. She gently nudged Hedwig to relocate to her arm and withdrew a letter from a pocket in her robes. Harry offered his help to tie the note while Su held Hedwig. "I have had many acquaintances, though none I considered as real friends until Padma in my first year. She, despite me not speaking to her, continued to talk to me, even if it was only to tell someone of her troubles and tribulations. Sometimes it bothered me, others, not."
Harry mulled that over for a minute. Not being able to speak for years after everyone else could only have been a harsh experience. Like Dudley and his gang, there were probably similar types of bullies in her youth that did not make her situation any easier.
"Hasn't that limited you a lot?" he eventually asked.
Su frowned. "It what sense?"
Harry pondered that a moment. As he did, he leaned back, the note tied. "You could have had more friends… Maybe not as close as Padma and you, but still more than you have now."
"Perhaps," she conceded. "However, I do know that I can trust Padma. Knowing that I can count on her, and that she trusts me enough to tell me a lot of her secrets and fears… It is worth more than any acquaintance or distant friend ever would be."
Harry, in a way, could understand that mentality. He, after all, had stuck with a small group for five years, although he did have distant friends within his house. Hermione and Ron were always the closest and he had been content to have only two really close friends rather than one hundred distant ones.
"And me?"
"What about you?" Su inquired. "I trust you. After Padma, and perhaps Luna, I believe you are my best friend. When you listen more than you speak, you can discern much about a person that you may not by asking questions. I can envision how you will move and react to certain pressures. I was not certain, but when you panicked that day, I believed you were under some influence. It seems I was right."
Harry blinked and turned away, attempting to prevent his mind from wandering down the Ginny path again. He dwelled on it still, though less and less as each day passed.
"Sometimes I still surprise myself when I talk aloud," Su smiled in a manner eerily reminiscent of Luna. "I've become accustomed to not hearing my own voice."
"Hang on," said Harry suddenly, her statement registering but disregarded. "Couldn't Healers do anything to fix your vocal chords?"
Su let out a small smile. "That is a common misconception amongst everyone, Harry. Magic, especially in regards to healing, is not absolute. Magic does not fix everything and not everything can be done with magic. Quite a lot can be accomplished, but not everything."
That was news to Harry. Each time he was in need of medical assistance he always had a potion to drink to fix him right up. There were never any real complications.
"So there are wizarding diseases that can't be cured?" asked Harry curiously. "Like a cancer for the wizarding world?"
"Not exactly, but yes, along those lines, that comparison is truth," Su agreed. "Most injuries caused by magic of the Dark Arts are irreparable or will leave permanent marks."
"What about Hermione's?"
"I do not know what spell she was hit with," Su admitted. "It also depends on how qualified Madame Pomfrey is at healing Dark Arts. From what I understand, Hermione did not spend time at St. Mungo's. Madame Pomfrey must be adequate enough, then."
Their conversation drifted off from there into less personal and thought provoking matters. It was strange to not have a one-sided conversation with the girl after so long. She had interesting tales to tell of what China, her homeland, was like.
Before long, it was late afternoon and nearing dinner time. Together, the two sent Hedwig on her way. He would not expect her for a week if her trip was all the way to China and back, but that was alright. She needed a break and a tiring task. Harry's correspondence via the owl network had dried up due to either death or awkward situations.
That had been the sole occasion that Harry had maintained a conversation that was neither one-sided or consist of a few, contrite responses from the Asian girl. Padma had been surprised when Harry had informed her that Su had spoken to him, as it had taken her nearly all of their first year for a friendship to truly begin between the pair. For whatever reason, the girl seemed to become more talkative – nowhere near as much as anyone else amongst the group, but an improvement nonetheless – since that day.
More time passed, and the remainder of the term passed surprisingly quickly and uneventfully for Harry and his group. The only noteworthy aspects within his lessons were that he had begun learning Conjuration and Human Transfiguration with Professor McGonagall, and learning to use a larger variety of spells as Professor Flitwick challenged Harry to multiple duels per evening where if he repeated a spell, he automatically lost. Frankly it was a good incentive, as Harry did not enjoy the idea of losing by default – his pride had a say in that. He was often lucky to escape without more than a bruise or two.
The night before the final day of term was the third interesting event.
Slughorn's Christmas Party was the event, the third noteworthy evening of the remainder of term. Harry and Hermione had been invited, with the option of taking guests if they wished. Harry had come across Luna earlier in the day and asked her to go with him before he even realized what he'd said. It seemed his promise to spend more time with the odd girl had sunk deeper into his personality than Harry had noticed.
Nonetheless, Luna was thrilled to bits and gave him an enthusiastic hug in response.
Hermione had ended up taking Neville with her, to keep the group together rather than due to any romantic feelings involved. Katie had not so subtlety shown displeasure with Hermione once she'd found out. This came as no surprise to either Harry or Hermione, both noticing several instances where the two of them had gotten rather close over the term. It was, however, more noticeable now for the gossipers.
The party was meant to be a laid back affair with drinks, dinner and conversation amongst the more up and coming students of Hogwarts, as was Slughorn's prerogative for the party. However, it turned out to be a dark night.
Initially Harry spent a good half an hour with Luna, Hermione, and Neville, just generally talking and mingling with some of the other guests. Although they all avoided Professor Trelawney when the four of them spotted her, were more than slightly shocked when Luna claimed Rufus Scrimgeour to be a vampire, and suffered through a battle of wills with Snape in front of Slughorn, the evening was enjoyable. But to top it all off, Malfoy was dragged into the room by Filch around two hours into the party. Apparently the Slytherin had been found in an upstairs corridor, supposedly attempting to sneak into the party, most likely because it hurt his pride to not be invited to somewhere that was considered high class, and had been caught. Slughorn gave him no punishment, saying that it was Christmas, much to the janitor's distaste.
Harry, Hermione, Neville and Luna watched the entire event from nearby; all focused on what the Slytherin was up to. Even Luna, who'd been on a high for much of the night in her excitement, was completely focused on the blonde teenager. They all knew that an upstairs corridor most likely meant the Room of Requirement.
The reactions of Malfoy and Snape were alarming to say the least, when Malfoy was allowed to join the party. Snape looked at Malfoy angrily… and possibly afraid, while Malfoy himself was not terribly excited with getting away without detention.
Leaving Neville and Luna behind, Harry and Hermione tailed Snape and Malfoy when they left under Harry's Invisibility Cloak, which he had kept with him whenever possible, to find the two arguing in an unused classroom, without a Silencing Charm.
Whatever Malfoy was up to, Snape was well aware of it. What was most disturbing was that Snape had given an Unbreakable Vow to Narcissa Malfoy to protect Malfoy.
There was more. Bellatrix had taught Malfoy some Occlumency, Malfoy supposedly had a plan to fulfill whatever job Voldemort had given to him, and Snape was practically begging Malfoy to let him help.
While Harry had suspected that Snape was working for Voldemort for some time, this certainly gave him more evidence than ever that he was. Hermione, for once, couldn't deny that Harry had misheard. She'd overheard the conversation just as well as Harry had. The words didn't lie.
What she did suggest was that it was all an act for Snape to find out what Malfoy was up to and put a stop to it. Admittedly, Harry thought that if Snape was indeed a spy, that situation was quite plausible. But Snape's attitude, his meetings with Malfoy, his switch from Dark to Light and the circumstances unknown to Harry, only aided and abetted the negative images of the man. Spy or not, without answers, Snape only seemed to find himself in a deeper hole, a hole that he might never escape from in Harry's mind.
-x-x-x-x-x-
It was now Saturday the twenty-first of December and the official end of term was a mere hour away. Technically classes had ended the night or afternoon before, but term did not end until the train left from Hogsmeade.
Harry was dressed and waiting for eight a.m. to arrive, signaling the start of breakfast in his dorm room. With all that had happened, he was glad the term was finally at a close.
"…fast, Harry?" Neville was asking him.
"Hmm?" Harry replied distractedly. "Breakfast time? Let's go then." Slowly, to prevent lightheadedness, Harry got to his feet and adjusted his ruffled clothing. Nodding to himself, he followed Neville down the stairs into the common room and out the portrait hole.
"It's been one busy term, hasn't it?" Neville asked offhandedly as they made their way down the seven staircases between their dorm and the Great Hall.
Harry nodded in response and the two chit-chatted the rest of the way. A crowd of students were awaiting the two Gryffindors as they arrived at the Great Hall. This was the last meal many students might have at Hogwarts until the other end of the holidays, and for some, this would be their last. The train for London was leaving in three hours. Conversation amongst the students was vibrant, loud and energetic.
In addition with the start and end of term feasts, this was one of the few occasions throughout the year where every student was present in the Hall at one time, and that sometimes created congestion in the doorway, especially when people kept stopping to chat in the middle of the walkway in their excitement at the end of term and holidays. This was the situation that Harry and Neville found on arrival.
The two gradually made their way through the crowd. Some of the younger students found themselves staring as the Harry Potter was standing behind them, mentioning the idiosyncrasies of their fellow students.
"Wish those idiots up ahead would quit blocking the way…" a voice beside Harry muttered to himself, barely audible over the din of dozens of voices.
Turning, Harry saw the origin of the voice was none other than Ron. Smiling part humorously and part grimly, he said, "Can't wait to dig in, Ron?"
"Bloody right I can't wait," he responded absently. Then he jumped and realized Harry was the one who'd spoken. "Erm, hey, Harry."
"Hello, Ron," Harry said tightly.
It had been almost six weeks now since Harry, Ron and Hermione had sat down and talked through what had happened between the three of them and Ginny. Ron had approached his two former friends a few days following Ginny's punishment being handed out. He was not angry, not at all. In fact, he had been downtrodden, solemn and apologetic.
He had requested to talk with them both in private. There was sincerity in his voice that could not be ignored, and the two had agreed on the condition that if he was asked to leave, to stop, or anything at all, he would comply without conflict or confrontation. Ron had complied with the condition instantly.
The two had chosen the dorms as the place to talk. Neville, Dean and Seamus were out and about, doing whatever it was that they did during their non-class times that didn't involve Harry in some way, shape or form.
"Why, Ron?" Hermione asked pleadingly. "Why?"
Ron ducked his head, reddening. Harry could sense the shame he felt, but his sympathy was almost non-existent at this point. He was a silent a long time, until Harry lost his patience and pressed the issue.
"Why didn't you tell us, Ron?" demanded Harry.
"I was afraid. I was the one that put the spell on Hermione."
Harry looked to Hermione, who merely nodded at him slowly, confirming what she had already come to conclusions on, and looked back to Ron. "Why would you do that?" he asked coldly, resisting the urge to shout. How had it ever turned out like this? "One of your best friends … why do that to her?"
Ron took a breath, steeling himself for a huge admission. "I only wanted to get you to notice me and nothing more. I wanted to be with you. And I didn't think I would unless you would focus on me. Using this worked out for Mum and Dad, and I thought... It was wrong. After casting the spell, I realized that I didn't want a magically influenced girlfriend. I needed to earn it. But I'd cast the spell already."
"However, I didn't even think it worked for the longest time. There was no visible reaction, and that was it. Nothing changed, except you did maybe show a little bit of interest. So, I left it alone. It wasn't until during last summer that I noticed that it had actually worked. I had a lot of time on my hands to think, see. You were less focused on Harry and more on me than I expected after, er, Sirius." Ron offered an apologetic look for bringing him up.
"It took until the start of this term to again realize how wrong what I was doing was." Ron continued. "Since I didn't think it had worked before, I hadn't thought about it much. Anyway, there are spells that Healers use to try and force the mind to remember what they'd forgotten, or something like that." He added with a wave of his wand, "I don't get all that complex stuff."
"I've read about it." Hermione replied, confirming his story. Ron sent her a thankful look, but was met with impassive features in return.
"Point is, I looked it up and used it on Hermione to try to get her memory to come back."
"Then why didn't you remove the spell too?" Harry asked, dumbfounded. Hermione was asking herself the same question.
Ron blushed scarlet, and scratched his nose distractedly. "Um… I didn't – don't know it – how to do it." Harry sighed deeply and continued to resist an urge, this time to strangle his former friend.
"I couldn't find the spell in the library, either. I spent a lot of time searching after… well, you know," Ron added.
"And you didn't think to tell us so we could find it ourselves?"
"Ginny found out first and she wouldn't let me," Ron admitted dejectedly. "It's no excuse."
"No, it isn't."
Ron didn't deny it.
"I couldn't ask Ginny for it; because she wasn't speaking to me when she found out I was backing out." Ron blanched as he remembered the next part. "Then I changed my mind again a week later. That's when I asked you, Harry, if Hermione liked me or not. For awhile it seemed like it would be fine but then Hermione couldn't bring herself to snog – uh – kiss me when we were alone."
"But by then it was too late." Hermione said softly. "I'd already started losing interest, and then you pushed me too far."
"Yeah."
The three of them were silent for a long moment.
"I'm surprised Ginny got off with as little as she did," Ron mentioned. "Mum and Dad weren't too happy with her, or me, either."
"I would expect as much, considering she told you and Ginny the spell." Harry replied scathingly, giving Hermione a furtive glance. She was watching Ron carefully, and maintained her silence.
Ron flinched slightly at the tone but did not add anything to further stoke the fires.
Harry and Hermione exchanged a look and came to a decision silently.
"We want this to end," Hermione informed Ron.
"She looked pretty messed up when she was packing her stuff up from what some of the other fifth year girls told me," Ron told Harry.
"We'll leave Ginny alone as long as she leaves us alone," Harry replied slowly. "Make sure she remembers that. Some aren't convinced she's done."
"No problem, Harry."
Another silence followed.
"And me?" inquired Ron hesitantly. He grimaced. "I'd like a forewarning if I'm going to get the same treatment."
Harry sighed and closed his eyes, rubbing them.
"We're not friends anymore," Hermione continued bluntly. Ron half-flinched at her tone, but could not deny her statement as naught but accurate.
"I think I understand why you did it, Ronald," Hermione went on sadly. "But that doesn't make it any better."
Ron swallowed and nodded.
"Same conditions as Ginerva, Ronald, we won't do anything, won't bring it up or take it any further if you don't. Otherwise, God save you, you will regret it."
"Yes ma'am," Ron replied automatically. Harry was tempted to smile.
A few more words were exchanged until Ron left Harry and Hermione alone a few minutes later.
"Are you sure this is what you want?" asked Harry, turning on the bed to face her directly.
"I don't know," Hermione shook her head in response. "I just want to focus on work and the DA and not have this hanging over my head anymore. I just want to move on and be close again."
Harry nodded in understanding and agreement.
"Then let's leave it as is."
And they had.
Harry carefully examined Ron, attempting to discern whether hostility, warmth or apathy would be the order of the day.
"Glad term is over?" asked Ron, testing the waters.
"You could say that," Harry replied with a trace of bitterness in there that had slipped through, though the question itself was not a good conversation starter. Ron caught the tone and opted to not speak again.
Neville tapped Harry on the shoulder and whispered, "This isn't my place to say this, and I realise exactly what he's done, but he's been pretty messed up about this."
"I know," Harry replied in a low voice that only Neville could hear. He was not unaware of that fact – they slept in the same room, after all. "Maybe after the holidays we can get along better. But I doubt it. For now, I can't go around treating him the way I used to. Things are different. He betrayed both our trusts, and right now, that's one of the most important things. Okay?"
"Just saying," responded Neville with a shrug. "You told me he said that he didn't ask or expect you to forgive him, but that doesn't stop him from wanting it. He'd probably have a go with a dragon to earn at least a few points in your book."
Harry nodded but did not respond. He wasn't anywhere near ready to forgive him. Maybe one day he could, maybe not. But it definitely wasn't today.
Finally the crowed thinned enough for Harry, Neville and Ron to squeeze through and take seats at the Gryffindor table – Ron further up the table than Harry and Neville. As if by telepathy, Katie, Susan, Hannah, Padma, Su and Ernie drifted over to sit with Harry in the next minute.
While piling his plate with food, Harry realized that this was the last gathering they would be having until term started up again. Out of the entire DA, only Daphne and Padma were remaining behind in addition to Harry and Hermione. Susan and Hannah were going to spend the holidays at Hannah's house, Padma and Parvati were remaining at Hogwarts despite their parent's wishes for reasons he didn't feel comfortable pursuing. Su, Ernie, Neville and Katie were going to spend time with their families and Luna was apparently going to help her dad with a series of Quibbler articles encompassing creatures spotted inside Hogwarts that, to nobody's surprise, no one knew of.
At the start of the year Harry expected he would be spending this time at the Burrow or Grimmauld Place. With the way things stood between Ron, Ginny and himself, the Burrow was completely out of the question, and he'd heard not a word from Dumbledore to let him know to be prepared for the train ride home. When McGonagall sent the list for those who were staying to sign, she hadn't said a word when he added his name, so it was a safe assumption his Christmas would be a Hogwarts one.
Hermione was staying to keep Harry company over the break. Despite Harry diplomatically telling her to get lost and spend time with her parents, Hermione remained steadfast in her decision. Deep down Harry might have thought it was because Hermione was still afraid of something happening to him and them in general while she was gone, but Harry was happy to have her around and left his thoughts at that.
The breakfast was a grand fair, like a miniature feast. The house-elves outdid themselves with the variety and quality of dishes. Sitting down with his friends, Harry was able to relax and enjoy himself like he used to before the Tri-Wizard Tournament stole away his relatively peaceful existence. All thoughts of keeping his friends a secret had gradually dissipated throughout the term, finally disappearing altogether at this last meal before most students left for break. They were going to be in danger regardless of their connection to Harry and like they all had said, they were able to take care of themselves now.
Hermione had arrived shortly after Harry and had been rather subdued. She said she would explain after the meal and proceeded to act more normally. Harry pushed the thoughts from his mind and enjoyed himself.
All of his friends, minus Daphne for obvious reasons, though Harry honestly did regret that fact, were seated with him and Harry raised his glass, capturing the attentions of the other nine.
"I've never done one of these before – never had a reason, mind you – so, all I'll say is this; to a better tomorrow."
"Cheers!"
An hour later, Harry and Hermione were seated on Harry's bed again, with the curtains closed around them and the usual spells ensuring their privacy. Between the two was the pensieve.
Hermione had explained that she had had a few more dreams over the past few weeks and that they were finally complete. She insisted he witness the memory as well, for the effects did carry over to Harry, and from a sense of repaying a debt for asking Harry for one of his private memories.
It was a conversation between Mrs. Weasley and Hermione. The matriarch was extremely interested in her relationship with Ron, and not so subtly hinted that she would like the two to get together.
The conversation ended soon, and Hermione left the kitchen of Grimmauld Place to her room. A few seconds after she closed it, the door opened again and she heard the incantation of the spell. It had been Ron's voice. The last thing Hermione remembered was Ron and Mrs. Weasley standing together. Then, the memory ended.
"I never pictured Mrs. Weasley encouraging something like that," Harry said, both disgusted and amazed at the same time.
"Neither had I," Hermione replied in a similar fashion. Her hand was clutching at her chest, where the spell had struck her.
Harry noticed the reaction, reached and grasped her hand in his.
"It's over." Harry stated confidently. "It'll be nothing but a bad memory." He then grimaced and added as an afterthought, "'suppose we have quite a few of those now…"
Hermione smiled at his half-hearted attempt at humor, something that often worked wonders to cheer a person up. He was right. Hence forth, it was to be a bad memory and nothing more.
The two discussed the memory for a short time, contemplating why Mrs. Weasley would encourage the use of the spell, whether they should press the situation on her, whether Mr. Weasley knew and whether he was under it himself. They came to the conclusion that the use of the spell had been restricted to the two youngest children, who had now understood their mistakes and would not repeat them. Perhaps Mrs. Weasley had used it to gain Mr. Weasley's attention, but he had never shown any symptoms.
Hermione had tentatively mentioned Bill and Fleur and whether the same could be said for them. Harry denied the possibility. Fleur, given her questionable actions, would not have considered kissing him, let alone actually done it, had she been under a similar enchantment.
That had brought the conversation to a close. At some point during the talk Harry had removed his hand, their friendship far better than it had been a month prior but still lacking the closeness they once had. Harry stood silently and offered his hand to Hermione, who grasped it and stood as well. The two of them smiled slightly to each other and walked towards the door.
With a quiet click, the door to the sixth year's boys dormitory closed, ending the entire affair for good.
The majority, if not every last one, of the students of Hogwarts were outside or inside the station at Hogsmeade either leaving or bidding goodbye to their friends until they saw each other again in a few weeks. The scene that Harry and Hermione found contrasted considerably to their serious conversation only fifteen minutes prior. The contrast, however, lifted their mood drastically.
Predictably there were many hugs and kisses exchanged among the gathered. Some girls went the extra mile and started tearing up on the shoulders of friends they were leaving behind. Oddly some of the shoulders were of friends who were returning to Kings Cross with them too. Go figure.
Susan and Hannah found Harry and Hermione first, standing by one of the benches that were filled with the trunks and cages for owls or cats, or in a very few students' cases, toads. The two of them were dressed in woolen coats and caps, complete with ear flaps. A cold breeze blew through the station to illustrate the need for the clothing. Harry shivered slightly and looked up at the sky. There were clouds everywhere, another snowfall imminent.
"Looks like this where we part for 1996, Harry," Hannah said once they had dodged around the many other students to reach the two Gryffindors.
"Unlike every other year, we can actually look forward to spending more time with you in the New Year," Susan added with a coy grin. She then proceeded to give him a hug goodbye.
Harry, finally starting to get used to the teasing the two of them were so adept at, failed to submit to them with a blush this time. After an entire term with the pair, Harry was well aware that many sentences they used could become double entendres or contained some not-so-subtle alternate meanings.
"That depends on what type of 'spending time with me' you'd be after," Harry replied, unable to resist responding.
Both girls blinked in surprise. Hermione was struggling not to laugh from Harry's right.
"Bad move." Hermione shook her head and taking a step aside.
The two Hufflepuffs grinned evilly and the both of them took a step closer and grabbed each of his hands that were by his side.
"Oh, I'm certain you can use your imagination to find the right answer," Hannah whispered into his ear. Harry shuddered, and not from the cold.
"I think you'll find the answer quite clear when you open our present," Susan whispered into his other ear.
The two of them took a step back and were rewarded with a furiously blushing Harry. Laughing joyously, the two of them hugged Harry in turn, then Hermione and bade them farewell, before making their way through the crowd to the train.
"Your reaction was priceless, Harry," Hermione laughed gently, something she had not done enough of in recent times.
Harry mock glared at her, crossing his arms over his chest in a huff. This only gave Hermione more to laugh at. Resigning himself to the situation, Harry chuckled as well. He'd walked straight into that, after all.
The next to find them was Ernie.
"Appears this is where we part, Harry, old chap, and Hermione." Ernie nodded at Harry, and then Hermione. "Keep yourselves well."
"Make sure you have a good time, Ernie," Harry replied, shaking his hand. "When term starts again, we'll be busy again."
"I can guarantee you I will," Ernie replied, retracting his hand and reaching down to pick us his trunk again. He hesitated. "I apologize for my attitude this term," he added sincerely. "I have been rather unpleasant to be around, I imagine. I felt I could do everything after how well we blew through our work last year. I'll try not to let it happen again."
Harry raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Have a good Christmas, Ernie." He wasn't sure what else to add.
Ernie nodded in response. "And the same to you two. Cheerio, Harry, Hermione,"
And with that, Ernie made his way to board the train. Harry and Hermione saw Padma and Su approaching them a minute later.
"Have a wonderful Christmas, Su," Harry said brightly as the two reached them. Su looked at Padma, passed off her belongings and gave Harry a brief hug with a quiet whisper of 'you too' in his ear. Harry only realized just how short Su was then, when her head only made it to his collar bone as she stood on tip-e-toes to reach his ear.
Releasing Harry, Su gave Hermione a similar hug before gathering her belongings and heading off towards the train.
"Think she'll ever have a regular conversation with everyone aloud?" Harry asked Padma quietly. "I mean, she can cast spells silently pretty well and all, but none of us know anything about her except she's Chinese, sixteen and doesn't talk much. Good reason aside."
"I don't know much more than that either, Harry," Padma replied, watching Su's form board the train. "I honestly can't give you a proper answer about that. With how she grew up, she's more than likely to remain a listener. But I do not mind."
Harry was far off in thought for a minute before Hermione poked him in the side. He looked at Hermione darkly before she pointed to his other side. Neville and Katie were walking towards them.
"Neville," Harry nodded, his arms folded again, keeping the cold away from his chest area.
"Harry, Padma, Hermione," Neville addressed the three of them. "Have a good time you three."
"You too," the three of them chorused at the same time, looked at each other and shrugged. Neville laughed, shook Harry's hand, gave Hermione a brief hug and waved at Padma before he made his way to the train.
"See you all next term," Katie said simply, before making her way to the train.
The three watched the girl leave, all three of them slightly miffed at the brief exit … at least that was until Katie turned around and yelled out, "Remember to practice, Potter! I expect us to kick Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw just as much!"
A series of boos, jeers and cheers arose from those within earshot. Katie, smiling broadly, waved and boarded after Neville.
Harry, Hermione and Padma waved back and chatted amongst themselves for several minutes before Luna joined them. She was wearing her regular Hogwarts robes, but had her glasses again. Her wand was behind her ear and her hair was colored like Harry's skin had been earlier in the year once she'd been through with him.
"Drackle's around?" she asked brightly, searching the station furiously, her rainbow colored hair creeping more than one student out.
"Drackle?" Hermione and Padma inquired at the same time, recoiling at the appearance the Ravenclaw had. When the world had she done that?
"They're a little pygmy looking creature that causes mild confusion," Luna replied, undeterred by the odd looks she was receiving for her appearance. She then added, disheartened, "Since you appear focused now, they must be long gone."
Ignoring her odd remarks, Harry bade her farewell and wished her luck with the Quibbler. Luna hugged all three of them and boarded the train a minute later.
The three of them stood together in silence, watching as the last of the students boarded the train. A loud toot and steam that filled the air signaled the last minute warning. Two fourth year Hufflepuffs boarded the train a moment later and the doors closed behind them.
A minute later the train pulled out from the station, gradually picking up speed. The sounds of students cheering, screaming to friends over the loud steam engine and many shouted goodbyes filled the air as the Hogwarts Express traveled away from what many considered a second home.
As the train rounded the corner, Harry, Hermione and Padma turned back to the gates of Hogwarts. The memories of what had passed in the last three months were pushed to the back of their minds. They were ready to celebrate their own Christmas together in whatever tranquility could still be found in the wizarding world.
-x-x-x-x-x-
A/N: The most complaints about this were about the leniency towards Ginny and Mrs. Weasley, and Harry's reaction. Harry wants it done with, to fix his friendships and move on. Dumbledore is a tolerant person, and Ginny is a part of the Weasley family, whom he no doubt owes a lot too given their support and assistance. You'll discover Mrs. Weasley's punishment around Easter in the story. Ginny will have a role to play in Seventh Year. But she's pretty much completely absent for the rest of Sixth.