A/N: First of all, apologies for missing my self-imposed deadline. I know that I promised several of you a NYE chapter and I blew it. I believe you will find that my reason was better than most: My Muse would Not SHUT UP! Thus, this chapter not only missed my deadline, but still does not get us through NYE. I hope you will not mind the longest single chapter thus far.
Seriously, 10k words last night – and I didn't get done. I started around 8 and, well, lets just say that I put in OT and leave it at that, k?
Jean, Chapter 18 A New Year – Almost!
7:00 am, Saturday, December 25th, 1993
Number 12 Grimmauld Place
Hermione awoke, stretched and frowned.
The light streaming into her room was at the wrong angle. She had overslept!
Grumbling a bit, her mood darkened further as she remembered having that awful dream again last night, only this time there was more to it than usual. The dark chase was more intense, more realistic. Yet the details slipped away like sand through her fingers as she chased them through her fleeing memories.
Sighing with frustration, Hermione prepared for her trip across the hall to the bathroom to ready herself for the day. She did peek both ways after opening the door, a small smirk fading as she had half-hoped to run into a shirtless Harry again.
Her expectations were not borne out in the hall, nor did she find him at breakfast; though she did acknowledge that the boy was an early riser so she wasn't surprised to have missed him.
She enjoyed a hearty breakfast with Tonks, Arthur, Sirius and, most importantly, her father. What was 'sleeping in' for her was about the normal wake-up time for the rest of the household, less Harry. She figured that she was last to breakfast by only a few moments if the way Sirius almost blindly pouring himself coffee was any indication.
Hermione caught sight of Kreacher's forlorn gaze at his master's back. Yesterday there was a heated argument between Lord and servant over Sirius serving himself; it was quite humorous for everyone except of course for the two involved.
Actually, Hermione was quite sure that Sirius had enjoyed the exchange enormously as well. Thankfully, he seemed to have had the good sense not to show his new and improved servant his usual sarcastic wit.
In the end the house elf had grudgingly conceded to allow Sirius to "occasionally" get his own coffee in the morning and to mix his own drinks at night. Anything to do with food was not an issue up for discussion.
As she looked around the room, she noted that the others seemed to have no idea that Kreacher was around. It occurred to her that this wasn't the only time, it had always been that way now that she considered the matter.
She also noted that she had not seen Dobby around the house since Sirius's return. Hermione realized that there was quite a bit about house elves that she didn't know. Having learned a bit about the history of House Black, it was not all that surprising that the Black family library contained almost nothing on the subject – at least nothing that she had really wanted to know. The soon-to-be-student wondered if the library at Hogwarts would be able to fill her insatiable curiosity.
Surreptitiously watching Kreacher scrambling eggs while orchestrating the dishes, the young witch wondered why she was the only one who seemed to ever notice the small fellow. He was not dressed nearly as finely this morning as the night of the rescue, yet his dark grey, one piece garment was well fitted and functional. The matte black stitching of the Black family crest was the only embellishment, the emblem covering his whole chest.
She was pleased by the way that his face, which she had gotten used to seeing set in a sneer, now seemed to be more at ease, despite the fact that she had never seen him so busy.
"You OK sweetheart?" her father asked, drawing the attention of everyone in the kitchen to the young woman.
Hermione blinked a few times; looking down, she found that she had a fork full of eggs half way to her mouth. Out of the corner of her eye she caught the flappy ears of the house elf as he shook his head at her. Smiling slightly, half at the servants spectacle and half at her own wool gathering, she shook her head as well.
"That is, yes, I'm fine, nothing's wrong, I'm just a bit out of it. Overslept," the teen replied with a small smile.
Her father smiled gently at her. She knew that he was amazed at the way she had settled into this new world. He had actually admitted that he was feeling rather at home himself – as long as he could keep busy.
Hermione could see his gaze searching her face, and knowing that they would be parting paths again rather soon, she began to ask about the plans for the day.
As if reading her mind, her father beat her to the punch, "Lets find something fun to do today – just the two of us?"
"You mean after presents, right?" this from Tonks, who – even in her distractedness – Hermione had noticed was keeping watch on the kitchen door. A fact that everyone else seemed to have noticed with varying degrees of humor now that Hermione looked around.
"Of course, Nymph-argl!" Sirius exclaimed, as Tonks threw her remaining omelet directly into his mouth.
Only Hermione seemed to note Kreacher's baleful glare at the 'assault' upon his Master, but Lord Black's response – a booming, laughing "Nice Shot!" forestalled further actions. The quiet witness wondered just how much trouble Tonks might have gotten herself into had Sirius started choking instead of laughing?
The 'gong' of floo arrival was followed regularly by three more and suddenly the kitchen was filled with the Hogwarts contingent. Remus, Minerva, Albus and even Madam Pomfrey all trooped in with refrains of 'Happy Christmas' filling the kitchen with cheer.
Hermione held her father's hand as the whole gaggling group departed the kitchen and tromped into the beautifully decorated library for distribution of the remainder of presents.
She had no idea what the order of things were around here, traditions seemed to be whatever, whoever wanted to do. The teen had no clue what she was in for when Minerva simply instructed, "Why don't you sit here," pointing to one of the large over-stuffed chairs.
Hermione toed off her slippers and settled her small frame into the deep-set seat. She soon found herself laughing under a substantial pile of packages; so many so that the impression from witnesses was that the present-piled chair was wiggling of it's own accord.
Her incredulous mirth wasn't the only cause of movement however. Figures and shapes on the wrapping paper moved about, skating and skiing, flying and flooing, dancing and sliding about the many ornate packages. The bows bounced and hummed tunes and – in the case of one particularly vibrant red and gold package – the ribbon refused to stay in place long enough for Hermione to undo it. She'd never had so much fun opening presents, let alone been the recipient of the sheer number of gifts.
Her mood was matched by the rest of the room as a plethora of gifts changed hands between friends, old and new.
The troublesome package proved to be quite a test of her skills: The evasive bow had to be 'finite'ed to a stop, the wrapping paper required a 'diffindo' to penetrate (it had no seams), the plain white cardboard box within also had no seams and required an 'alohomora'. Within she found another box, which in turn required a 'revelio' to find the seam. This nonsense, while entertaining Hermione to no end, drew quite a crowd until, at the end she found a single, unenchanted (thankfully!) card.
"The bearer of this card is entitled to one favor from Gred & Forge at their earliest convenience."
The young witch smirked, she had no idea what the twins were capable of, but she intended on finding their limits!
Half an hour later the soon-to-be-Hogwarts-student found herself the proud owner of several pairs of school robes, many uniform shirts, trousers and skirts, and a few ties (which, she was informed, were enchanted to turn her house colors once she was sorted). In addition there was a variety of 'wizarding casual wear'.
New loafers, snow boots and a fancy new pair of trainers completed her deluge; and of course, her card.
A different teen girl might have been put out at the practicality of the presents, however the 'Jean' in her still felt quite satisfied at the gifts. In any case, Hermione was elated at the thoughtfulness of her mentors, tutors and new friends, regardless of the content of the packages.
"A good haul then, Grangers?" Sirius asked as the teen was explaining some of the features of the new watch her father had received.
The two nodded enthusiastically, then shared some laughter over Remus's rather stiff response as Tonk's brushed some clingy, sparkly dust from his clothing and hair.
Earlier the young witch had noticed Sirius leave (more like escape) after dumping a rather large pile of faerie-dust-enchanted wrappers on Tonks and Remus's heads, calling "clean each other up, won't you?" as he sprinted from the room. She had only now realized that he was back.
Hermione had assumed that Sirius was going to retrieve Harry from wherever he was – perhaps he was having a lie-in after all – yet when she was finally able to un-pile from her treasure-trove of gifts, Harry was not among the other revelers.
Direct as always, her query of "Where's Harry?" seemed to quiet the whole room in a matter of moments. The question received an even split of looks, but whether those expressions were downcast or inquisitive, all heads turned towards Sirius.
"Resting, he's a bit under the weather," was the man's reply, but his tone conveyed more sorrow than a simple cold merited.
The Headmaster, seeming to intuit that the young witch – and several others – were not satisfied, cleared his throat. "I believe that everyone here is trustworthy enough to keep this to yourselves. Harry was subjected to some form of psychic and magical injuries in the course of our freeing of Sirius from the Malfoy's magical shelter. The cause of this damage was the entity calling himself Lord Voldemort – though I have evidence that suggests that he was merely a shade of the former dark lord."
Moving slowly and quietly, Dumbledore crossed to the fireplace, ostensibly to warm his long thin hands before the crackling hearth. After a short pause, he turned, taking in the room and it's now somber occupants. "I do not believe that Harry is in danger of any long term side effects, put that out of your minds. He is also the sort of young man that would feel much the worse if he knew that he was the source of so much worry, especially today."
"His experience has weakened him, and as a healthy young man he is quite frustrated over that weakness, and the commensurate restrictions," the old wizard said with a sad smile. "Yet Poppy, as well as some specialists in these matters, assure us that he will make a full recovery in time to return to next term."
"In fact," his eyes quite suddenly twinkling brightly, the aged professor smiled as he gestured to the other side of the room – to the doorway where Harry himself stood awkwardly leaning against the frame. "His frustration appears to have won out over both good sense and healers' orders. Happy Christmas Harry."
As one, all heads turned to find the boy in question leaning in the doorway to the library.
Hermione thought it surreal how quickly the mood changed. Many shouts of "Happy Christmas Harry" and other encouragements were offset by a frustrated 'harrumph' from Madam Pomfrey.
The Hogwarts healer moved across the room in a trice, gathering the teen into a robe she had conjured along the way.
Harry had seemed dressed warmly enough to Hermione, at least for the drafty halls. She had only a few moments to take in his outfit, a deep green tunic and trousers that almost appeared to be leather the way it fitted his form, yet it appeared – at least at a distance – to be soft and supple.
Yet he didn't protest, and seemed to lean a bit into the matron's side as they came closer, even as the whole group rose to meet the pair in the middle of the large room.
"I just wanted to wish everyone a proper 'Happy Christmas' is all." The dark haired boy spoke quietly.
"Dobby?" Harry said, again with an almost gentle tone.
The bright-eyed elf was at Harry's side an instant later even as the teen was digging something out of his pocket, expanding a small bundle into a large, colorful package.
Harry slowly crouched to even level with the servant. "For you, my friend. Happy Christmas, and thank you very much for the suit."
Hermione thought the little fellow's eyes would pop straight from his sockets he was so ecstatic. She did wonder what 'suit' Dobby would have given Harry, unless he meant the odd material now hidden by the robe? She was given no more time to ruminate however for as soon as Dobby had popped away with the gift Harry had given him (socks, a dozen pairs, which apparently each played a different Christmas tune and flashed colors keeping time); there was a new distraction.
The green eyes that locked on hers were crinkled with a smile even as he waved his hand. His wand, which Hermione now knew he carried in a similar holster to her own from the way it had suddenly jumped to his hand, produced a startling array of lights which everyone looked up to smile at and appreciate; a few 'ooohs' and 'ahhhhs' punctuating the silence.
When they looked back, Harry was gone from a startled looking Pomfrey's side, and a voice from nowhere declared, "I don't know half of you half as well as I should like; though I like less than half of you as well as you deserve." The voice choked back a laugh as it was now further towards the open door, "Sorry, that was terrible, I hope you have a Happy Christmas, I'm heading back to bed."
With that, the library door closed seemingly of it's own accord.
Hermione knew she was new to this whole magic business, but even with the mangled quote from Bilbo she was quite lost.
Sirius, smiling widely, ventured, "I suppose that was his way of letting us know he's well enough to prank us – so we don't worry – but smart enough to take himself back to his bed before he gets confined there." He finished with a wry smirk.
Madam Pomfrey was obviously less impressed as she immediately left to see to her patient regardless of his intentions or capabilities.
The clock chimed ten and, as if queued by the time, Dumbledore called the attention of the room back to himself.
"I have one final gift, then some of us I'm sure have to depart for other destinations." The Headmaster intoned in his standard cadence, twinkling eyes matching his smile.
When he spoke again, he sounded genuinely put-out, though the smirk and remaining twinkle belied his feelings, "I'm afraid, however, that our resident marauder-in-training has rather stolen my thunder."
Hermione had no idea to what the Headmaster was referring, but he continued on before she could give the matter much attention.
"Still, Happy Christmas from those who know perhaps better than any of us, what the season can mean both for better or for worse."
Again, the teen could only wonder for a moment at the wizard's words before he waved his wand high over his head and – rather reminiscent of Harry's recent display – bright lights filled the air. There was more to this display however, among the beautiful lights were colorful paper streamers, gently swirling down towards the assembled crowd.
Even as the streamers began to settle, they seemed to do so directly into people's hands, going so far as to slither down shoulders to arms and await grasps of the amazed recipients. On each of the streamers were letters, words actually, so tiny that Hermione could not make out anything on the papers held by those standing nearby.
Yet turning her attention to the long felt-like paper in her grip, she could clearly read a list. They were names.
Hermione recognized most of those at the beginning of the list. Then many that followed had various Auror titles. Finally a slim line divided the short introductory list from the much larger remainder.
That list was alphabetical, and the teen knew that she would find her father and her own names under 'G'.
There must have been several hundred people listed, each one was someone saved by that small contingent of perhaps thirty that had been named at the beginning.
"This list," Dumbledore intoned in a deep, soulful voice, "represents what this Christmas means to me. After so many losses, so much suffering, I wanted each of you to know how much you have accomplished, or," and the Headmaster then turned to nod at the Grangers, "in some cases to better realize what a determined group, no matter it's size, can accomplish. And, by extension, how very much good we can do in this world when we dedicate ourselves towards that purpose."
Smiles were exchanged and there were many a moist eye as the group slowly milled around in small clusters to hug or pat backs, murmured words too low to hear but the camaraderie therein was easily felt.
Many stopped to hug or shake hands with the Grangers. Although Hermione herself was exclusively on the receiving end of the mentioned goodwill, her father had been very active in helping care for the other refugees spread all over Britain.
Gradually the crowd thinned as the members drifted off towards their remaining Christmas Day plans.
Hermione reflected that she was very blessed; in keeping with the 'better safe than sorry' level of Faith that she had been nurturing since her mother first took ill, she lifted her heart in thanks towards a God she could only hope was listening.
. . .
The reflective mood lingered until an early lunch of cold leftovers was finished; at which time Dan Granger told his daughter: "Go get ready to go out," with a smile that reached his dark brown eyes.
They spent the afternoon together, wandering through parks and eating whatever they found at the scarce selection of shops and street vendors that were open on this holiday. Many times their spirited 'Happy Christmas' seemed to perk up a down heart. By the time dark came early that afternoon, the pair of them were as warmed in their hearts as they were worn out from their trekking.
One thing they were not, was cold, as Hermione had been allowed by Sirius to borrow a training wand that had no trace upon it. "For emergencies, including fighting off chill!" He had proclaimed with a roguish smile.
Dan had shown none of his initial wand-shyness as by now he'd grown quite used to their function in daily life as one of a very few muggles in a magical world.
The day ended back at Grimmauld Place. Although at supper they discovered that Harry had been taken to Hogwarts by his nurse, Sirius was adamant that the boy was fine.
Supper of hot soup with fresh bread accompanied by mulled cider made both father and daughter sigh contentedly before the yawns set in.
They were abed early, both as happy as they could recall in recent years.
. . .
When Hermione awoke the next day, Boxing Day, she was mostly cheered by the fact that she did not recall having had that awful dream. 'Finally' she thought with relief, for she was beginning to fear that she would have to seek advice on the nightmares had they continued to worsen.
Also, she was quite looking forward to revising with her tutors later that afternoon.
The morning was going quite well, she had awoken on time and Kreacher had made a delicious variety of fresh muffins and there was homemade butter. The only downside was the discovery that Harry was not around – in fact he had not come back from Hogwarts last night.
Sirius only casually mentioned this fact at breakfast (for which Hermione was early and only lounging around waiting for her father by the time Sirius arrived). "He should be back around this afternoon, Poppy wanted to observe him overnight, poor kid." He groused sympathetically.
Father and daughter spent a while talking about his work and her studies, just enjoying the time together.
The whole time Sirius seemed to be watching them out of the corner of his eye, and Hermione wondered if she hadn't seen a wistful look upon the face of her recovering host.
Soon it was time for her father to leave, Arthur arrived and the pair of them left to look at some bulk purchases.
Shortly thereafter Sirius announced that he was leaving, "I'm off to see if I can spring the prisoner!" He cheerfully announced as he headed towards the floo.
A double 'gong' a few hours later had Hermione's hopes up, but it was the twins, at least they were back to their jolly mood. Hermione was unsure whether to be glad or guarded. The stories that Harry, Sirius and Remus told about Fred and George's antics made the young witch see them in a whole new light. A much more cautious one given some of the pranks they had played upon their own family.
"Hermione dear! -
- so good to see you here -
- we've come to -
- congratulate you -
- (sotto voce) and Harrykins -
- on your amazing -
- stupendously amusing -
- Malfoy confusing -
- seriously Sirius rescuing."
Blinking slowly, Hermione shook her head to clear the amazement at how the two of them so seamlessly spoke without breaking rhythm or tone. She blushed lightly at the compliment, though she was still a bit worried about Harry as she responded.
"Harry's not here, he stayed at Hogwarts last night, Sirius has gone to fetch him."
Twin frowns momentarily marred their seemingly perpetual grins, but only long enough for them to glance at one another.
"Very well -
- we'll come back later -
- if we can get away -" The two seemed to give a small shrug at this, but didn't break stride in their words.
- Mum's a bit wonky -
- about us stopping by -
- after her Ronniekins -
- got what he deserved -" (The pair of them executed what appeared to be a military about face)
- not that you -" (saluting the back of their heads as they continued)
- heard that from us -" (now walking back towards the entrance)
- toodles!" Fred, or George(?) finished as they rounded the corner out of sight.
After a bit the young witch began the process of transporting all of her textbooks, study supplies and notes downstairs, which killed some time, as did clearing some space off for her and her tutors.
Lunch came and went with no Sirius or Harry, though Remus did stop by to join her, and Hermione noted that he looked more than a little tired.
He also had not seen Harry since breakfast at Hogwarts and only shook his head ruefully when she mentioned Sirius's 'rescue plans'. He reviewed the coming schedule with her, knowing how much she liked to have a time table.
Remus explained that he and Tonks would be drilling her on revision for the first year testing, which would take place the next day, on the 27th. They would be grading her in process and at the end of the day she would have the official results.
Then, assuming she passed (he had winked as he said this) Professor Snape and Professor Flitwick would be setting aside a few hours on the 28th. He would be joining Professor McGonagall on the 29th for her to review, and show her level of proficiency with, the first semester of second year coursework.
Should all of them find her competence sufficient, she would get another invitation to attend Hogwarts! (The Headmaster had already accepted her submissions of her essays for History of Magic. Both her Runes and Arithmancy Professors had signed off on Hermione entering at the term without reservation. She would have to do special Herbology lessons with Professor Sprout as time allowed.)
The only remark Remus made that gave her concern was that she would need to be on her 'best behavior' with Professor Snape.
The two began her revision shortly after noon.
They were just discussing basic DADA questions when Kreacher popped into the library to announce that she had mail awaiting. The elf opened a window with a snap of his fingers and a large eagle owl swooped in and dropped a rather thick envelope into Hermione's lap.
The owl, which did not even slow down, wheeled about and was soon out the window. Kreacher then closed the window with another snap, then popped out of the room after ensuring that there was no evidence of the owl's presence left in it's wake.
Hermione slowly blinked once, as if trying to confirm her eyes.
She was getting a little tired of blinking stupidly as a form of response, but so many odd things had happened recently.
The witch took a steadying breath, picked up the ornate envelope and read the formal, dark green writing:
From: Draco Malfoy
To: Miss Jean,
c/o Ms. Emmeline Vance
Then, as she read her name, more words formed below them in a more flowing, dark blue script:
Hermione, only you can read this, and it will not be delivered to anyone else.
The contents are perfectly safe, and, although I did not read the missive, I can say that you must have made quite the impression on the young Malfoy.
Also, none of it can be traced, so tell Sirius not to despair his treasured privacy!
Happy New Year,
Emmeline
As soon as Hermione read the second message she saw the blue letters fade and reform, now saying:
Hermione Granger,
c/o Lord Black
Grimmauld Place
Seeming to come out of a trance, Hermione turned a wide-eyed gaze upon her teacher, who seemed not to be bothered at all about the situation.
Carefully opening the thick, cream colored vellum package, Hermione removed a similarly thick sheet of the expensive paper. There was something else in the heavy envelope, and when she slid it out onto her open palm her eyes shot open in wonder.
There, sparkling even in the fickle December afternoon sunlight, was a golden hair comb inlayed with what appeared to be several topaz, arranged in a 'sunrise burst' pattern.
"Perhaps you should read the letter?" Remus gently prompted, finally nudging the teen from her stupor.
She nodded a bit mechanically and unfolded the missive, finding another, smaller paper tucked inside.
First she read the letter itself, which was written in the same dark green ink and formal style:
...
Miss Jean,
Please forgive the lateness of this letter, Ms. Vance was travelling and it took a few days for my owl to track her. She informed me that she would pass this note on to you as you were staying with a family friend while she was travelling for the holidays.
Once again I offer my apology for your horrible treatment at the hands of that criminal. My father has filed formal charges and claimed injury on behalf of our Family and several others. You are welcome to join the suit or not as you choose. Father encouraged me to advise you to seek private counsel, perhaps through Ms. Vance.
With that unpleasant matter out of the way, I will draw your attention to my disappointment at not locating you more quickly. It is with no small urgency that I hope you receive this invitation before another engagement claims your attention for New Years Eve.
Should your evening still have some time available, even if only a few hours, please do me the honor of accepting this invitation to our family's New Years Eve Ball.
Consider the hair comb a miserably late Christmas present, and should you accept, perhaps you would be so kind as to find the accompanying gown at Madam Malkin's to your taste. (I had Mother help in the selection to put your mind at ease).
The comb is yours regardless of your response, as a penance for my shame at your experience in my home as well as a token of my affection for your company.
Au revoir,
Draco Malfoy
...
To say that Hermione was speechless would have been laughable. Stunned would have been more accurate.
Remus finally cast a few detection spells on the girl and the letter out of concern, even though he was confident that Kreacher would almost certainly have prevented a cursed item from entering the house.
His eyebrows were high as he completed reading Draco's message.
The smaller, square card still sat unopened in Hermione's lap.
With a shake of her bushy-haired head, the young woman finally looked up at her teacher. Blinking quickly, she opened the smal, crisp, cream-colored envelope and found the elegant, formal invitation within.
She reviewed the pertinent facts:
It was a formal dress ball.
There would be a dance and refreshments.
Festivities began at 8:00 pm and continued through 2:00 am.
Her face beamed as she smiled in wide-eyed wonder. She had been invited to a Ball! She, Hermione Granger, for real this time!
Well, 'Miss Jean' had. That thought caused a frown as deep as her earlier smile had been bright.
Coming to her rescue, Remus correctly interpreted her rapid expression change. "You can still go, in fact it would be an opportunity to clear the air with Draco as you'll be in school with him just next week."
Comprehension seemed to light in the girl's eyes, but still she looked a bit distracted.
This time the wizard did not understand the witches thoughts, but he tried. "You'll have time to pick up the dress on the thirtieth. Tonks can help you get ready, she..." He trailed off, then began to fidget as he realized what he was about to say.
Picking up on the thought that Tonks didn't have plans that night – a fact that the young Auror had made clear just yesterday – Remus filed away the implications in favor of addressing the more immediate issue: his student.
With his train of thought came a parallel concern, which he gave voice to, "Hermione, are you concerned because you have other plans?" He had no idea what the young witch might have planned with her father.
Or, he finally wondered, with Harry?
Meanwhile, in the turbulent squall that was Hermione's mind, the teen was desperately trying to find a solid thought to hold on to.
Her emotions seemed to have no constant as her thoughts swirled around: The amazing idea of going to a ball. Going to a ball with Draco. Not being invited to do anything with Harry. Harry not having been able to invite her to do anything. Did Harry think of her that way? How did she think of Harry? How did she think of Draco? Would she get her first kiss at the stroke of midnight? Would she want that? Who would she want ...
Standing slowly, Hermione looked glassy eyed at her mentor, "I have to think about this. Do you think he'll need a reply right away?" she asked, handing the small envelope to Remus.
Quickly glancing at the card, he shook his head once. "There is no RSVP, which is a tad odd. I'd say that he is either confident that you will accept or, hang on" Remus closely scanned the invitation, "Well, as his teacher I can confirm that this is his hand writing. Given his station, I'm quite certain that he is not in the habit of writing out invitations by hand."
With a slight grimace, the teacher continued, "Not to add pressure, but he probably missed adding the RSVP out of lack of familiarity with the process. I would say that you should reply by end of the 28th, which gives you a couple of days to consider, as well as to ensure that nothing more pressing might come along."
Looking for confirmation, Remus found that Hermione was quite easy to read. Her facial expressions regularly changed in response to his words, ending with a frown even as she nodded absently.
Hermione muttered, "Thanks for your help Rem-Professor."
The two returned to her revision and Tonks joined as the old clock struck one.
It took most of that time before Hermione had finally, ruthlessly squelched all non-academic thoughts. For the next couple of hours she thought of nothing but revising on the Standard Book of Spells, Grade 1. When they broke for a few minutes that afternoon Tonks took her aside and asked if everything were ok.
Giving no time for her own uncomfortable thoughts, the student smiled as she brushed her distraction off as concern for Harry. The ruse worked, for Tonks filled Hermione in that Harry had started a new round of potions that really seemed to be helping.
She was glad, really she was. But she wanted to get back to work, back to the distraction of reviewing lessons.
The first year revisions were finished well before Tea, and the pair of tutors went over several of their planned questions about second year material at Hermione's insistence. Once they had enjoyed the refreshments that Kreacher provided precisely at four pm, Tonks excused herself as she had to go on shift soon.
Remus stayed until Sirius and Harry returned, and her father arrived shortly thereafter still in an animated discussion with Arthur Weasley and Emmeline Vance; something about land grants and using the muggle social service programs.
Hermione thanked Ms. Vance for forwarding the letter and gave her father a 'later' look in response to his 'what's that' glance.
The seven of them ate a good supper, full of conversation about the coming school term, what Hermione could expect from different Professors – Snape was a lengthy topic then – and how much colder it was in the Northern end of the isle among other trivial matters.
Excusing herself with a headache, Hermione left the boys as the topic turned to quidditch, a wizarding school sport that she had read about but had no interest in. Ms. Vance took the opportunity to beat a retreat as well.
She was pleased when her father followed her upstairs, however she wasn't quite ready to talk about the questions that swirled about in her head. The teen was grateful when she gave her father a simple "I got an invitation to a dance, but I want to think about it." Grateful because he let it go at that.
They spent the evening together, first she graciously lost to her father in a game of chess, then the two of them discussed several projects that he was involved with. They had quite a bit of fun sorting through her books; she had her school clothing already packed into her trunk.
She had packed with easy efficiency that left more room for books (folding and packing spells were 2nd year material). However, this left only a finite amount of room for her substantial private library.
That didn't include the many selections she had chosen from the Black library. While she had permission to borrow any book, they decided that she wasn't going to remove any of those books from the house, regardless of Sirius's dismissive nature about such things. This narrowed the choice to a few dozen volumes, her home library now gone, she was reduced to those the school had sent to her forwarding address when she 'died' in the fire.
Having both retired early the night before and not being all that tired, they passed the evening into the night enjoying one another's company. Hermione never did discuss the ball with her father. She wanted to wait until she had an opportunity to talk with Harry. His invitation – or lack thereof – she concluded, would make the decision substantially simpler.
. . .
The next day, Monday the 27th, dawned bright but cold, and it took the young witch a couple more warming charms than usual to get the room feeling toasty enough to venture out of her enchanted bed. The dreary scene outside the window only matched Hermione's mood until her brain caught up to one of her favorite topics:
Tests!
Today she would test out of first year and take the first step towards going to a real wizarding school!
The morning was much as the day before, though with less of a crowd at breakfast. Her father left with Arthur as soon as he had kissed her forehead, they were off on resupply missions until the afternoon of New Years Eve.
Sirius had never come home the day before, Arthur mentioned that he and Harry had gone off to "do some guy stuff."
She tried not to grump about boys. Not out loud.
A much more cheerful Kreacher had made her an omelet, to order, and she sat to eat alone. She turned to find the Elf had vanished before she could compliment his skill. It felt odd to be eating alone, the house was too quiet and felt a little creepy.
Finishing breakfast quickly, Hermione explored the few places she felt comfortable roaming.
It seemed as though, excepting a few of the remaining refugees lounging in the magically climate controlled backyard, that nobody was home. The library was empty, as was the rest of the first floor.
Her father and Arthur were gone. Molly and the boys seemed to have other plans lately. Sirius and Harry were off gallivanting. Tonks and Remus were due within the hour. She supposed that the rest of the normal visitors to Grimmauld Place were back to work, it was a Monday after all.
Two gongs announced company, then Hermione head a voice. However after a few moments, when nobody had entered the library, she wondered who was here. Curious, she moved down the hall and as she walked she recognized Harry's voice. As she neared the end of the hall she heard another voice, female and unfamiliar.
Inexplicably the young witch slowed down and peered around the corner. She saw Harry, dressed in a dark grey jumper and blue-jeans, standing close to a slightly built blonde girl.
The girls face was pretty, but she seemed quite young. That doesn't seem to stop her from showing Harry quite a bit of affection. She held his arm as she laughed and her face clearly showed that she adored him. She nodded in response to something he said, her eyes disturbingly wide. Hermione can see that they are a pale grey even in the relative gloom of the entryway.
His voice carried as he turned, reaching up to the floo powder. "That's settled then, we'll meet here on the thirtieth and go get your gown, I'm so glad you'll get to go to the ball!"
The girl responded by throwing her arms around Harry and hugging him tightly. Hermione turned away as Harry laughed, then returned the hug and lifted the girl off of her feet. A small squeal escaped the blonde, muffled by her face buried in his chest.
His genuine warmth at this girl's excitement make Hermione's heart sink. She was quite frustrated with herself as she considered, 'Harry and I had not been anything more than friends, and even that for only a few short days, why am I so jealous? He has a girlfriend. A cute young girl that he was going to buy a dress and take to a ball.'
The thought of how she had a gown awaiting her didn't occur to her at that moment. Not to mention the jeweled hair comb. No, at that moment Hermione's mind was turning from jealousy to envy.
'She was probably a witch that he had known for years, a witch who knew all about him.' The teen sulked as she scampered quietly down the hall back to the library. She had to cut off her negative thoughts, but her eyes were still moist as she focused her mind on the coming tests.
Moments later the gong rang twice again and sounds of greetings were exchanged.
The approach of footsteps was punctuated by two more gongs.
She figured that Harry and his girlfriend must have left, which was confirmed by the arrival of her tutors.
Remus truly looked dreadful today, but waved off her concern as a him being "under the weather, but nothing catching". Tonks seemed to really feel bad for him, if her sympathetic looks were any indication.
Admittedly, Hermione was so eager that she allowed the wizard's brush-off in favor of sitting her exams.
She needn't have worried, they were so simple that she had to discipline herself not to over-think them.
Before she had really come down from the rush she was eating lunch.
Anxiously.
Tonks laughed at her student's enthusiasm, Remus remarked how he'd only known one other student who had displayed such a zeal for learning. His eyes were sad when he spoke though, so the teen held back from her immediate urge to learn about who she had reminded him of.
Hermione's instincts were right on track, the wizard sounded reluctant when Tonks narrowed her eyes at him in question.
The wizard relented under the normally perky witches gaze. "Lily Evans, she married James Potter – Harry's mum."
The "Oh, bugger" was out of Tonk's mouth before she realized it, and Hermione's snort of disbelief that quickly followed was similarly too late to stop.
As uncomfortable as everyone was, the tension was broken by involuntary giggles from the girls, quickly given acceptance by Remus's gentle smile as he watched them laugh.
Mostly he watched Tonks, the younger witch noted.
"She was a wonderful, funny, lovely and intelligent witch, and you remind me of her very much." Remus mused fondly.
Hermione smiled, looking at her teacher only to find that he was looking at Tonks.
Tonks, who was smiling at Hermione, followed the girls gaze to Remus.
Remus promptly stood up, "Right, back to testing!" and was out the door before another word could be spoken.
An air of disbelief hung over the witches.
'Remus just flirted with Tonks!' Ran through Hermione's mind, then her grin got huge as she saw the realization dawning on the Auror's face.
Leaving the blushing Tonks to gather herself, Hermione almost skipped out of the kitchen back to her testing, which was already quite a ways ahead of schedule.
In fact she finished so far ahead of schedule that her teachers had no reason not to give her the good news well before Tea – she had passed everything with perfect scores!
They similarly had no excuse not to continue second year revision, which they agreed to in the spirit of such a successful day.
So it was that when Sirius and Harry arrived home – they had spent the day out doing who knows what again – Tonks and Remus were still there. At the sound of the floo Remus glanced at the clock and figeted a bit. He had seemed increasingly agitated as the afternoon wore on.
"Uhm, Tonks," he began, not looking at either witch. "Did you have plans-"
"-No!" Tonks responded, a bit enthusiastically. "I don't work tonight." She finished with a grin.
Meanwhile Remus looked rather frustrated.
Wondering what he had really meant to ask, Hermione thought it prudent to try to give the pair some alone time. Of course the boys would have to pick right then to barge into the library.
Sirius barked out "How'd she do?" Before he was even through the door.
Harry's follow up of "As if you have to ask, she's incredibly smart, going to give me a run in a couple of years I'll wager you."
Not only did the pair of them quash the moment between the budding couple, but now Hermione was blushing uncontrollably at the green eyed boy's unexpected and exuberant praise.
Remus shut them both down, "That's Hermoine's business to divulge, now don't pester her."
Of course the room went silent at that proclamation. Hermione snuck a glance up, having ducked her head at Harry's comments.
Remus was smiling encouragingly.
Tonks was glancing appraisingly at Remus.
Sirius had a look that clearly said 'Well?'
And Harry... Harry stared at her with something akin to... to what? What did that look mean?
"I passed." She blurted out, mostly to escape the attention, to move past the moment, her mind once again a whirl.
"Of Course You Passed!"
"Great Job!"
"She's really quite clever,"
"I think she'll give you a challenge sooner than you think,"
"Oho! Another wager?"
The way the room erupted into an almost continuous stream of exclamations made Hermione think of the twins, and the twins gave her a way to derail all this attention from herself, so she seized it.
"The twins were by looking for you Harry."
"Oh? When?" He took the bait.
"Yesterday." Why didn't she have more to say? She could see that this line was running out of track, and quickly.
The young witch chanced a glance around and saw that Tonks was still giving Remus an ocassional glance – a glance that contained questions.
Cutting off Harry's reply even before he'd voiced it, Hermione stood and announced, "I need to talk to Tonks about, about girl stuff, could you guys give us a moment?"
It was such a sudden change of tack that the three wizards were caught off guard.
"Please?" Hermione entreated, even as Sirius was already moving toward the door.
"Of course," the Lord Black responded solicitously, "c'mon men, lets go make fire." He gruffly proclaimed and finished with a wink.
Remus's voice had obvious regret as he called out, "I'm quite beat, I think I'll call it a night. See you tomorrow ladies."
Harry and Sirius began grunting and exclaiming in strange, guttural tones. Remus seemed rather reluctant to follow the idiotic sounding pair. Then the door was closed, finally giving them some quiet.
At first Tonks was looking at the door with a doleful gaze. She seemed to shake herself from the mood and quickly fixed her student with a calculating grin. "OK missy, what was that about, or were you that desperate to escape Harry's admiration?"
'Harry's what?' Hermione nearly shrieked, holding it in as a loud thought at the last moment. Shaking her head, she had to get past this mess, and quickly.
"Tonks," she stopped, then mumbled as she waved her wand and pointed at the door.
The Auror looked even more intensely at the teen. "A privacy charm? Did Harry teach you that?"
"Yes," Hermione responded sheepishly. "Listen, Tonks, it's actually about Harry, but, you see, I know he doesn't like me like that, he has a girlfriend. And Draco sent me an invitation to the Malfoy ball, so I wondered if you would help me get ready on New Years Eve? If, that is, you and Remus aren't-"
"-What, no. Well, I don't think so. But, OK, hold up," Tonks shook her head slowly. "Back up a few steps. Harry has a girlfriend?"
Hermione nodded, biting back the reluctance. "I saw them talking yesterday, she was... quite affectionate."
Tonks seemed to consider this information for a moment, and the younger witch could see the Auror at work behind those wide brown eyes. Eyes that Hermione realized with a start were exactly the same shade as her own! Why hadn't she noticed that before?
Before she got any further with those thoughts, Tonks closed her eyes and sighed. She sounded... wistful? Disappointed? Hermione was quite lost at this point.
The clarification didn't do anything for her heart. "Sorry dear, I was just, well, lets just say I'd hopes for Harry taking someone else to the ball. That aside, Draco Malfoy? You know his father is a death eater, a really nasty piece of work, right?"
From heartache to stubborn determination, Hermione stuck up for the boy who had quite likely saved her virtue, if not perhaps even her life. "Yes, I've read about Mr. Malfoy, and I've also heard quite a bit about him from Lord Black, however I don't think Draco is like him. Besides which, Harry and his girlfriend will be there, plus I'll be shielded by the blood purity charm." Taking a quick breath, the young witch pressed on from another tack. "I need to let him know I'll be in school this term. That is, I need to tell him my name at least. I'll be sure to do so at the end of the night, just in case."
The teen hung her head, she felt a headache growing. But she continued on before Tonks could get a word in, "I just... I just want to be a teenager for once. To go to a fancy ball and dance and have fun. Can you help me, please?"
"Well, no," the older witch responded shortly.
"I mean no, I can't." Tonks had to quickly amend at the crestfallen look upon Hermione's face. "I'm rubbish at face painting. But my mum, she's brilliant at makeup and such."
Hermione scrunched up her face in clear confusion. Tonks's face was beautifully made up, a gentle hint of blush, the perfect lip gloss, and the shade of eye coloring matched her blue-grey eyes wonderfully.
'Wait. Blue-grey eyes!?' Yep, there's the headache.
Tonks saw her student staring, and finally realized the problem. "It's not makeup love, it's, well, I'm a metamorph. I can change my looks at a whim, watch:
And so she did.
Auror Tonks grew a long skinny nose, made her jowl droop, even wiggled her ears impressively. Her cheeks went from ruddy to pale to – purple? Her hair seemed capable of cycling through every possible natural shade and right on from there into the ridiculous, pinks and greens, a garish dark red with a practically glowing orange stripe, and though the older witch was clearly concentrating, Hermione noticed that she kept her empty hands flat on the desk. No wand, just – magic.
Hermione laughed at a few of the more outlandish displays, but her mind was churning away, 'Metamorph, she had called it. I can't wait to study that!' was quickly followed by 'I wonder what she really looks like?' and then 'If she isn't using a wand...' which of course led to the questions.
Ten minutes later a laughing Tonks finally called the lesson closed – Hermione had grilled her about the mechanics of transfiguration, becoming an animagus, even the role of Arithmancy in calculating volume of transfiguration as it related to mass and density. Every time the Auror gave an answer it seemed to lead to more questions.
"So," the teacher tried to divert the student, "my mum was, quite literally, raised to be a pure-blood princess. She naturally knows how to put on a face." Tonks gave a laugh as she changed her lip color from blue to green and back to her standard, gentle pink for effect. Let me pop in and ask her tonight after supper and I'll just bet you she'd be delighted to help.
That crisis diverted, the two young ladies adjourned their secret conference, but not before Hermione got in a parting shot as she made for the door.
"I don't think Remus was asking you to supper. I think he was asking you about this Friday." She finished with a grin, then dashed down the hall to leave the unusual witch wide eyed.
Hermione didn't like to put things off, but she wondered about getting a moment to talk with Sirius without Harry around. She pushed that idea around through supper and realized that Harry wouldn't care, he has a date already. Resigned to the facts, the young witch turned to her host as the older man mopped up his plate with some dark bread.
"Sirius, would you be able to take me into Diagon Alley on Thursday?"
The man frowned, his eyes squinting a little, his 'thinking face' Hermione smirked to herself. At least it didn't take him long, but he turned to Harry instead of answering her directly.
"Weren't you going to Diagon Alley that day?"
Hermione's heart sank, she knew she had forgotten something! Before she could backtrack Harry had already turned an interested look her way.
He tilted his head just a bit to the side, his green eyes smiling, "Sure you can come, what are you needing?"
'In for a penny,' she braced herself. "I need to pick up a gown, for the ball."
Harry's reaction was quite unexpected, "Of course!" He enthused, "How could I forget? You can come with Luna and I when we pick up her gown! We're going just before noon, we'll grab lunch then get you ladies fitted, I can't wait for you to meet Luna." Harry finished with a fond smile.
She smiled in response. It did not reach her eyes. 'Luna? Oh. What a... nice name.' Realizing she needed to get out of this, fast, she got as far as "Oh-"
"-That's settled then!" Interrupted Sirius, "So how far are you in your Second Year spell book young lady? I have a bet with the young sucker here."
The witch in question sat open eyed for a moment, and almost stomped her foot when she realized that she was doing the slow-blink-thing again. 'I just want this day to be over.' She lamented to herself, then replied in a resigned sigh, "I, uh, finished it."
"You wha-" Sirius exclaimed.
"-Told ya, pay up!" Harry trumpeted over the top of his adoptive father.
Tonks shook her head, muttering "Who was the sucker?" But she was giving Harry a considered look. She obviously was thinking about something he had said. She let it go though, and stood to bid goodnight to the three residents.
The boys continued to rib one another, yet they stood as Tonks made her exit as they always did when a female left her seat.
'There was something nice about the old-fashioned manners', Hermione thought, yet as soon as Tonks was to the door, the guys were once again yelling at one another, albeit good naturedly. She tried to make sense of their argument, Harry claiming that the wager had been a 'Nimbus', and Sirius quite confidently retorting that it was a 'Cleansweep', whatever that was about.
Realizing that she needed someone to help return her reply to Draco, the witch excused herself from the oblivious boys.
At least she thought they were oblivious, but they promptly stood while she exited.
"Good night young lady, sleep well." Came Sirius's standard nightly parting.
She couldn't help but demure a little as Harry smiled brightly at her.
"Good night Hermione, congrats on the tests, I know you'll wow them all tomorrow as well." Was his enthusiastic send off.
'Well!' she thought brightly, 'his mood is certainly much improved.' Then, much more darkly, she realized, 'It's probably because he spent time with his girlfriend.' She forced another smile as she replied "Good night gentlemen."
Hermione hurried to catch up with Tonks, who was just buttoning her coat when the younger witch caught her.
"Tonks, do you have an owl I could use to reply to Draco's invitation?"
The Auror seemed to consider for a moment, then smiled wryly. "It's a Malfoy invitation you say? No need for an owl. Simply sign 'I accept' and your name, and his invitation book will update. Heck they probably have a house Elf writing the invites."
A bit wide-eyed, Hermione shook her head at her tutor. Casting a quick glance at the closed kitchen door, she removed the small envelope from her back pocket. She'd been carrying it around under a duro charm since she received it. "Professor Lupin said it was Draco's hand writing, and he said that since Draco doesn't usually write invites, that he probably forgot the RSVP."
Tonk's expression clearly replied 'Oh' as she took the paper and looked it over.
Nodding, she confirmed Hermione and Remus's thoughts, "Yeah, that fits with what I know about the Malfoy's. I'm still surprised you are... nevermind. Anyways you be sure to have either Sirius or someone else powerful cast that blood-purity obscuring charm Friday night. They take that stuff more seriously than you realize."
Tonks shook her head as she looked around the renovated home of her one time pureblood supremicist relatives. "In any case, just write your acceptance as I said and I'll get it sent."
Hermione immediately produced a ball-point pen which she had tucked into her wand holster.
"No!" Tonks exclaimed, closing her eyes and looking down at the floor in what Hermione took to be frustration.
She was smiling when she raised her head though, and the smile reached her blue-grey eyes. "Signing that with a pen would be like screaming "I'M MUGGLEBORN!" when you walked in the door. "You've been practicing your quill-work for the old fashioned professors, right? OK, get your best quill and a nice colored ink, perhaps a deep orange?"
Nodding, Hermione set off down the short hall to the library. Minutes later Tonks was on her way – and so was the signed reply.
. . .
The twenty eighth of December was only notable in that Hermione didn't see what everyone was so worked up about. The most worrisome event was Potions, which, while challenging, was not beyond her abilities.
It was a simultaneous practical and written exam – Professor Snape scoffed at the idea of a review.
The Potions Master called a stop to the exam after three hours of cutting, mincing and stirring while making notes, answering questions and discussing ingredient properties.
While brewing two potions at the same time.
The dour Professor's only negative comments were, "Nobody likes a know-it-all, Granger" and "You have done acceptable work, however, remember that not everything can be learned from a book."
After that parting comment, the dark attired man had stalked out of the room leaving Hermione to clean up a considerable mess.
Professor Flitwick could not have been more of an antithesis to Professor Snape. The little man actually clapped when Hermione successfully cast every charm from the first semester successfully. He positively beamed when she continued on to do the rest of the spells in order.
His squeakily proclaimed, "Oh very well done, very well done indeed miss Granger, I do so look forward to having you in my class. And dare I hope my tower, as well? We shall see!"
This made Hermione blush and smile brightly in reply.
She found her bed happily that night, quite tired but extremely pleased – and looking very much forward to the next day's challenges.
. . .
Transfiguration and Defense were Wednesday's subjects,
Minerva – that is Professor McGonagall – nodded primly all through her Q & A, as if the whole thing were a formality. Given that she and the professor were already discussing third year transfiguration principles before the 'rescue Sirius' plan took all of their time, it was reasonable for her to feel confident in Hermione's abilities.
Remus was not feeling well, so Tonks took Hermione through a Q & A portion on Defense which she had no trouble with at all. When the time came for the practical testing the Auror led the young witch down stairs to the basement.
She had been down here – to the restored potion lab – many a time in the previous weeks/months. However this was the first time she went down the hall and through the door at the end.
Tonks whispered a password and Hermione stared around the cavernous room that they had entered. There were wooden targets, straw dummies and various weapons and racks of odd bric-a-brac that either reminded the teen of things she had seen in medieval studies or were completely unknown to her.
What immediately grabbed her attention however were the several book shelves which lined the walls to either side of the doorway. Books she had not had access to were like an unopened box of chocolates to a chocoholic. Not only was there the sheer draw of the knowledge, but the call of the unknown – not even getting close enough to read the titles in the scant light – was almost enough to draw a whimper of frustration from the bibliophile.
Unfortunately for the teen, Tonks had already passed her on the written. It was time for the practical.
"Move over to the right, stand in the blue circle. While you are in that circle, you are safe. Step out of the circle when you are ready to begin. Step into the circle to ceed the duel."
Tonks had taken up a position some thirty feet away, standing just this side of another blue circle.
"We're going to duel?" Hermione spat incredulously. "But, you'll wipe the floor with me!"
Tonks only smirked in reply. "Show me what you've got, I won't be unfair to your beginning skill level."
If the Auror had been trying to push the younger witches buttons, it had worked.
'Beginner am I?' Hermione seethed. Of course, that's exactly what she was. But she was also a witch who had dedicated the many weeks to learning every spell she could. Several of which were quite... mean.
Stepping out of the circle, Hermione lowered her wand arm and felt the slender stick fit into her palm, resting against her pointer and middle fingers. As she had read – and been instructed by Tonks herself – she held the wand loosely by the fingertips and relied upon the magical holster to prevent being disarmed.
She knew it would take years of practice to perfect her grip. For now, she just wanted to get the spells correct.
Realizing that she would be the one to start, the student stepped to one side and began the spells she had been planning for this moment. She had anticipated having to duel some day. She thought it would be at school.
Next year.
Now she was quite glad she studied ahead.
Beginning with "Trip," the girl stepped quickly ahead and followed with "Babble", then a quick "Confundo" she dodged a stunner and then another. She frowned when her attempt to Accio a target from behind her still stationary tutor was disrupted as her wand wiggled in her hand. She also frowned as she realized that Tonks was merely pointing her wand, occassionaly jabbing or sweeping it in short strokes. Her teacher was making no noticeable wand motions and had yet to speak a spell.
"Oh." Realization came to the student at that point. So that's what a real witch can do.
Not one to give up, Hermione continued to close, she tried to summon twice more, and began to try to whisper her spells instead of speaking them quite so loudly. Her attempts to shorten or conserve motion in spell casting met with failure every time however.
What's more, while she had managed to evade the dozen or so spells Tonks sent at her, she was already feeling herself begin to tire. 'At this rate I'll never even hit with a tickle hex.' She lamented, even as she sent three of those same hexes at her foe in quick succession. Tonks, who had been simply batting away those spells well enough aimed to bother with, actually ducked the third of Hermione's quickly cast assault.
'Aha!' The student smiled.
Stepping and weaving, Hermione timed another volley, ignoring the tougher spells, she stuck with a series of five consecutive "Trip" hexes, all of which had a very quick cast as well as short wand motions.
Tonks was forced to step out of the way of the fourth, and was actually hit by the fifth!
Unfortunately by that time Hermione's attacks had lost almost all their strength – because she herself was almost ready to fall over. She didn't even notice that Tonks maintained her balance even the the spell hit her.
"Oh dear," she managed, as the floor rushed up to greet her.
The last thing she heard was "arresto" before she was lost to the blackness.
. . .
When she came to, her first thought was 'Why is she arresting me?'
Then 'Why doesn't my face hurt?' and then her muddled thoughts decided, 'Probably magic.'
When Tonks's face came into focus she was smiling. "Well done! You'll be the dueling circuit champon in a few years with those moves!"
Hermione squinted. 'Was she serious?'
"Yes, she's Serious, take it from me," came the reply of her terrible jokester host, his dark visage now looming over her with that ridiculous grin.
Sitting up wasn't painful, but it was difficult. 'Wow am I tuckered.' "I overdid it, huh?"
"Right in one," came Tonk's overly cheerful reply. "Here," she handed over a chunk of creamy chocolate, "eat this down, it will help."
Hermione could hardly help herself after the first bite. It was easily the best chocolate she'd ever had, and what's more she could gradually feel her lethargy fading as she gobbled down the sweet.
Then, as she had licked the last bit from her fingers, Tonks casually mentioned, "Also, you have mail."
Reflexively looking towards the window, Hermione instead found an envelope being handed to her by a very proud looking Minerva McGonagall. "Well done Miss Granger!"
The Professor always called her Hermione. Well, she had said that she'd have to stop when...
The envelope! The Seal, the Hogwarts Seal!
Tearing open the thick paper – and ignoring the associated thoughts – the teen scanned the ornate script.
There, in thick dark lettering, were the words which proclaimed that she – Hermione Jean Granger – had a place reserved at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for the coming Spring Term.
If that were not enough to get her misting up, over the course of the evening every witch and wizard she had met over the last months crowded into the kitchen for a congratulations feast. Even the Weasley's were in attendance for a while, and Hermione marvelled that so many people could assemble so quickly – and in her honor.
Harry was grinning at her the whole evening, which only made it all the harder to quell the pangs of regret that tinged the celebration, not to mention the thoughts of the next day.
Regardless, the night was filled with many well wishers coming and going, a few impromtu Hogwarts songs, and more stories of school day adventures – and misadventures – than she could count. Overall the atmosphere had her almost giddy by the time she once again braved those debilitating stairs to fall into a blissful slumber.
.o0o.
Many thanks to my wife for stepping in again as my Beta, the story would not be posted without her help and advice.
As an additional note, she also helped me tidy things up a bit, so if you're reading this post Jan 2nd, you have her to thank for less spelling/grammar issues ;)
Recommended reading: Blue Magic by Tellur - a Crossover? Yep, and with a Game title no less. Seriously, you don't have to be a gamer to enjoy this story. The characters, plot and overall story telling are very enjoyable, check it out for something new for the New Year ;)
Once again I am blessed with many reviews of Chapter 17: vyoom, brighteyes2889, Tellur, Noble Korhedron, arabellagrace, Kspringer, Luna de Papel, sfjoellen and erbkaiser. Thanks so much!
As I (belatedly) close out 2014, I'd just like to give a special thank you to all of you who have been consistent reviewers. Every comment helps, but those who have stayed with me through my ups and downs really keep me wanting to write, and write well.
. . .
A belated Happy New Year to all!
Blessings,
Majerus