A/N: I have made some corrections in this chapter. Next chapter will have a detailed explanation and a thank you to the reader/reviewer.
Chapter 87
Harry did not get much sleep that night. Every time he would be just about to find sleep he would hear a crack that he knew to be associated with apparition whether it be person or creature. He could also hear Dobby muttering and mumbling something he could not comprehend all the way, mostly all he would catch from the elf's mutters and mumbles was 'Harry Potter in bed. Harry Potter not leaves. Good."
At some point Harry had finally passed out. Harry did not know how long it had been since sleep finally found and claimed him but it felt as though only minutes maybe seconds had gone by, by the time someone tried to get him to stir.
"Harry…come on mate…time to get up."
"What? Just a little more sleep."
"Sorry no can do mate. As it is breakfast is nearly over. You have to get up so that at least I can get grab a bite to eat."
"Hey, Ron you go on ahead. I'll stay and make sure that he gets up."
"Thanks Neville."
"Any time."
Neville gave Harry a few more minutes once Ron had left and then started trying to get Harry up.
"Harry come on. I know you want more sleep but you can't miss classes…we won't let you...don't make me go get the girls…well that didn't work…hmmm…Harry you have to get up. Yes you will be tiered all day but it won't be quite so bad if you eat something…oh hell, with everything that happened yesterday I forgot to tell you that I stood up for myself to my Gran. She was going on and on about worrying about me and why no one sent another letter stating that it would be even longer until I returned…I told her that I am not my parents and basically said that she needs to stop complaining about how I am not like them and not living up to the 'Longbottom' name because it isn't doing me any good, that encouragement will do a lot more…"
"Neville…you actually said…" Harry sputtered out as he reached for his glasses and put them on.
"Yes. I'll tell you everything later. Right now you need to get up and dressed. I don't think you'll have time to stop for a spot of breakfast though."
"It won't be necessary for Harry to go to the Great Hall. I thought that I'd bring some food up here."
"Thanks Hermione." Harry said groggily.
"I'm surprised that you are as tired as you are…"
"Dobby kept checking on me last night so I am not sure how much sleep I got. My head feels as heavy as a Hippogriff, not that I know how heavy one is."
"You know I think that maybe you should just stay in bed today…"
"No, I need…I have to go to class Hermione. I'm just really wore out is all…it's nothing, I'm not missing classes because of this…it's my own stupidity."
"Are you sure?"
"Quite sure Neville."
"Harry the at least go see Madam Pomfrey, she might have some kind of pick-me up that would be a lot safer than trying to hunt down the twins for their version of a pick-me up."
"So true on that. Okay I'll go see Madam Pomfrey for something to help me get through the day at least and I will be going to bed early tonight...thank Merlin that it's not Quidditch season because Oliver would furious with me for missing the first practice."
"Merlin! Harry I thought that there wasn't a thing other than death that would keep you from Quidditch. You really should stay in bed."
"Not a chance Hermione. Quidditch won't help me with my exams or help me learn something in class…"
"Suit yourself. Oh yeah, here and I suggest you get dressed magically and eat on the go. Neville and I really need to get going or we will be late to class…with it being the first day that won't due." Hermione said just before she and Neville left.
Harry sat up all the way and swung his legs off the edge of his bed and then reached for his wand. With his wand in hand he summoned his school robes. With a quick flick of his wand he was now in his school robes. A quick stop by the bathroom to splash some cool water on his face, he blotted his face dry with a towel. As he made his way to the Hospital wing he ate the food Hermione had brought him. Harry had just entered the Hospital wing and Madam Pomfrey pounced on him, figuratively that is.
"Mr. Potter…"
"I'm just really tiered is all. I didn't get much sleep last night."
"Your friends give that much grief?"
"You know about…no not really…Dobby constantly 'popped' in and out checking on me to be sure that I was still in bed."
"You should still be in bed Mr. Potter. You look like a wreck. A note to me would have sufficed…"
"I was wondering if you had some kind of a pick-me up. Just to last through dinner."
"Oh I don't know about that Mr. Potter…"
"I give you my word that right after dinner I will go straight to bed."
"I suppose just this once Mr. Potter. But if this ever happens again…"
"I'll stay in bed and send a message to you or check myself in…"
"Very well…I'll be right back."
Seconds later Madam Pomfrey returned with a small vial containing a mahogany colored liquid. Harry took the vial, took out the stopped and tipped the vial into his mouth and swallowed the potion. The instant Harry gave the empty vial to Madam Pomfrey he started to feel the effects of the potion.
"Here, give this to your Professor. If you're Professor gives you any trouble you come see me or the Headmaster as soon as you can. I do not care who it is, a note from me is not something to cast aside and hand out a punishment for being late."
"Thank you." Harry said grateful and headed to his class that was half way through by this time.
Harry did not realize that it was Potions first thing that day. Though he knew that Professor Snape was on the side of the light, Harry still cringed at the look the Potions Master gave him.
"So Potter you finally decided to show up to class." Severus growled.
"Sorry, sir. I…" Harry trailed off and walked up to the desk where the Potions Master was sitting behind it. Harry quickly handed over the note from Madam Pomfrey and even faster took his seat in between Ron and Hermione.
"Mr. Potter you may remain in the class room as long as you do not disrupt your class mates and do not assist anyone either. Copy down the instructions on the board and then I want you to start reading the chapter designated with the potion and then an essay on this potion. I want you to write the effectives of this potion, the benefits as well as the side effects if consumed too often. Also the interactions of the ingredients in this potion and why these particular ingredients work and why other counterparts of said ingredients are disastrous. You will turn in the completed essay by Wednesday before dinner."
Harry only nodded in agreement with the not so snarky-greasy-bat-of the dungeons. Harry quietly pulled out his potions book, turned to the chapter concerning the potion, parchment, a quill and a bottle of ink. As he set everything up and started to copy down the instructions from the board Professor
Snape got his attention one last time.
"Mr. Potter."
"Yes, sir."
"You will stay after class. I need a word with you."
"Yes, sir."
Harry finished copying down the instructions from the board and started reading the chapter. Several pages into the chapter Harry became rather nervous. He was not worried about what Hermione was doing but Ron on the other hand. Though Harry did know how the potion was supposed to look, the potion in Ron's cauldron did not look quite right. Harry quickly but quietly put away his parchment, quill and ink bottle into his bag. He picked up his book and bag and carefully moved to an empty spot in the back of the class room and picked up reading where he had left off. Harry was aware of Professor Snape watching him and it seemed to Harry that the Professor looked curious if not amused.
Several minutes passed and nothing happened but Harry was waiting for it. It was either going to be Ron or Neville or possibly even both. Harry was nearly halfway through the chapter when Professor Snape started his rounds through the students to see how they were doing. As usual the Slytherin's were given quite a bit of praise whether or not each student deserved it and quite a bit of points given out for the attempt at least. Harry was not surprised when Professor Snape made no comment about Hermione's potion, he never did, and it was not fair to not comment on it. Hermione was the only one in their class that could and did make each potion perfectly without mistake and this time she did not give Neville or anyone any help. As always no comment and points awarded. Harry was ready for it when Professor Snape checked on Ron's. Harry for the first time understood why Professor Snape was so snarky and harsh with Ron but did feel that the Professor was a bit too cruel. Ron deserved the harsh words but not the fifty points taken away, detention for the next three Saturdays and an essay on what he did wrong to be turned in by the same time as Harry's essay. Then again when fewer points had been taken from Gryffindor due to something Ron had done wrong in class did not seem to help or motivate him to do better and not make such silly or disastrous mistakes. But the harsh words, loss of points, detention and an essay seemed to be taking too far but with any luck it might sink in with Ron to pay attention better in class at least potions since it can be harmful if not fatal if something were to go wrong.
Harry held his breath as Professor Snape moved onto Neville. Harry knew how nervous and frightened Neville was or is of the Professor. Suddenly Professor Snape was removing his cloak, draping it over Neville and trying to shield the class from Neville's cauldron. Harry just knew that what was steaming and bubbling was not good and despite the Professor's attempt to protect everyone in class it was going to be useless and Harry was sure that the Professor knew it but still had to try. It hit Harry that their Potions Professor was going to take the brunt of it. This was happing really fast, but what happened next was even faster. Harry jumped up out of his seat and as he headed towards the Professor, both of his hands were outstretched in front of him. The first thing that happened was that some kind of barrier had wrapped around every one in the vicinity of the cauldron or within reach of the disastrous result of whatever Neville had done, secondly a faint orange shield covered the cauldron completely and within seconds whatever was in the cauldron was gone along with the threat of serious injury or worse. The whole class was in shock, not as much as Harry was. Though Harry was terrified as he made eye contact with Professor Snape he could see confusion in the Potion's Master's eyes something that one would normally not see unless it was shock that a student actually merited to be in his class. Harry was relieved when Professor Snape looked away from him. Harry followed the Professor's gaze to Neville, who looked confused and somewhat frightened.
"P-professor I d-don't know w-what happened…" Neville trailed off and looked down at the floor.
Professor Snape looked around the class room, Harry being the only one to notice this. Professor Snape's eyes rested on a small group of Slytherin's and knew that they had done something to Neville's potion. Professor Snape had noticed that Neville seemed different, seemed as though he had some confidence and had been doing rather well that day. Even though using Legilimency on a student is forbidden especially without one's permission but there was nothing against one only doing surface scans and that is what Professor Snape had done, although he had intended on doing a surface scan of the whole class one at a time. Neville's thoughts were solely on the potion and was following the directions to a tee, repeating the instructions over and over in his head. Professor Snape had no problems with keeping his focus on Neville as well as what he was doing as he made his rounds through the students. He was aware that Neville had caught himself and did not put in the ingredient that he had grabbed. Neville put the ingredient down and took the time to verify that he was grabbing the correct ingredient. Once Professor Snape reached Neville and did what he could to protect him and the rest of the class, Professor Snape noticed that the ingredient that Neville had recently grabbed was on the floor.
"Mr. Potter."
"Yes, sir."
"Instead of staying after class, before you go to lunch see me in my office."
"Yes, sir."
"Class dismissed. Except for the following, Miss. Parkinson, Miss. Bulstrode, Mr. Goyle and Mr. Crabbe. Everyone else will bottle up what they have done so far and leave it on my desk."
The whole class quickly left the Potions class room. Harry, Ron and Hermione found an alcove and slipped into it. Before either of the three could say anything they were joined by one more, Draco Malfoy.
"What was that in class?"
"Hermione and I were just about to ask that."
"I don't know. I just…I had this really strong need to help, need to protect. I was only intending on assisting…I don't know what that was…whatever Professor Snape wanted to talk to me about…I'm sure it's now something else…"
"Don't worry Pot…Harry. Trust me…with this, I know Professor Snape and not just at school okay. Don't worry about it. I don't know what he was going to talk to you about but I can assure you that it wasn't anything bad. Whatever he was going to talk to you about, he still will but yes he will be talking to you about what you did. I have never seen him look so surprised and confused about anything not even when there are some taking potions that shouldn't be. No I am not talking about Long…Neville. It's obvious with Neville that he has potential just some confidence, encouragement and get over his fear of our dear Professor…"
"It has more to do with the fear of Professor Snape."
"I agree Harry. I noticed something, Neville seemed to be somewhat sure of himself today something that I have not seen in him…well, ever."
"He has some confidence in himself. Between being accepted for who he is as a young wizard, as an individual and standing up for himself…believe it or not…he stood up to his Gran. He said that he'd tell me everything later. I'm thinking this weekend the Room of Requirement. I mean that way all of us can be there and he won't have to recount it so many times although I am sure that he wouldn't mind repeating the recounting to everyone, one at a time."
"I'll let Dudley know and we'll be there. When exactly?"
"Saturday early, while the school is at breakfast so that you and my cousin will be able to keep your cover so to speak."
"Sounds good." Ron agreed.
"Wait, what was with Professor Snape letting us go early and…"
"I think that those four are the culprits…the ones or at least one of them is and the others knew about it…put something in Neville's cauldron. I have a sinking feeling that this is not the first time that they've done something. At least Pansy and Millicent."
"He'll probably just give them a talking to." Ron said nonchalantly.
"Actually whatever they did could have been fatal if I'm not mistaken. The color of the potion that was bubbling up…"
"What do you think he'll do?"
"We will find out some time today, I'm sure." Draco then left the three in the alcove.
"Ron!"
"What?"
"What the hell was that all about? 'He'll probably just give them a talking to'."
"What? So we know from Harry that Snape is…you know…I just thought that by saying what I did…"
"Oh. Sorry, Ron."
"You could have just asked me what I meant by it instead of jumping down my throat…"
"You know I think I'm going to let the two of have some…privacy." Harry muttered and exited the alcove as fast as he could.
Harry dashed throughout the school to his next class, Transfiguration. Though out of breath he briskly walked into the class and took a seat in the first available seat. Seconds later Hermione and Ron walked in just as out of breath if not even more out of breath than Harry had been. Both joined Harry where he had been sitting, lucky for them they could sit together.
Harry, internally, cringed at the look he received form Professor McGonagall. It did not take a genius to come to the conclusion that she knew what happened the day before. As the class began Harry paid just as much attention to Professor McGonagall as Hermione always had. Harry stayed focused and quiet, as in no side discussions during class time. This went for the other two as well and sure enough all three had done exceptional. Hermione as always succeeded in what they were doing, Harry had accomplished the task as well with a good twenty minutes left of class. Ron had done well, by the end of the class he had gotten close to succeeding in the task, closer than he had ever been in succeeding in the task given in Transfiguration. McGonagall was quite impressed with Harry and Ron and was looking forward to what the two just might do in the future in her class. She dismissed everyone but asked Harry to stay behind for a moment.
"Professor, not to be rude but Professor Snape wanted to see before lunch."
"It won't take long…"
"This has to do with my foolishness of yesterday, doesn't it?"
"Yes, Mr. Potter it does. The Headmaster wouldn't tell me much other than it was something reckless and potentially deadly."
"True. I do realize the errors I made, every single one. I truly do. I have promised Sirius, Professor Dumbledore, my friends, Dobby a house elf and now you…I promise not to do it again…the mistakes that is…I can't say that I won't do anything foolish or reckless again…it happens…"
"Very well. I am relieved that you do realize the errors you made and relieved that you are alright. Although I did receive and interesting note from Madam Pomfrey…"
"I didn't want to miss the first the day of classes….speaking of, I really don't want to keep Professor Snape waiting too long. He didn't seem angry or displeased by or about anything but I don't want to push it. I am sure you will find out…yes something happened in class, nothing bad or well I didn't do anything…well…it's confusing and I don't know what happened really. Sorry…"
"It's alright Mr. Potter. Go, we do not want Professor Snape in a foul mood on the first day of classes."
Harry smiled and chuckled as he left the class room and went straight to Professor Snape's office. Harry knocked on the door and waited.
"Enter."
"Professor you wanted to see me." Harry said as he walked into the office and shut the door.
"Yes. Firstly…thank you…for what you sent over the summer holiday."
"What?"
"The portrait and the sample potion ingredients, I do realize Mr. Potter that you had intended to disguise your writing… in your haste to send the packages you forgot to do so. It does not matter I know your intentions were in the right place. I would like an explanation though."
"The portrait…well, she wanted me to send it to you…"
"How did you come across the portrait?"
"I found it. I…it's not all that easy to explain, sir. I found the portrait and she asked me to send it to you. I'm not sure what more I can say without giving too much away…it's of a personal matter to me. I hope you understand, sir and I swear that I mean no disrespect nor do I mean to be rude or anything…"
"Relax Mr. Potter." Professor Snape said with a humorously amused smirk on his face. "Now about the potion ingredients, most of them are rare and nearly impossible to find anywhere. Half of the rest are easy enough to get if you know where to look and what to look for the rest are difficult to obtain. Most apothecaries do not have them on stock but you can order them."
"That, sir, is the most difficult to explain. I want to explain but…I'm just not ready yet."
"Very well, I will not push it further. Now…"
"Sorry to interrupt but I have no idea what happened in class. I wanted to help…didn't really know how to but I just wanted to help. Those of us taking Potions would be, excuse the language sir, screwed if anything happened to you. Potions can be dangerous if one doesn't pay attention I don't think that anyone has the patience or passion for the subject. You tell us to pay attention and focus some of us do not listen but you try. No matter your reasons for wanting to keep the students from blowing everything up, you try to keep them from doing exactly that."
Professor Snape did not know what to say. The only individuals in recent history that ever complimented him meant the compliment with a double meaning. But with the young Potter, Severus knew that the kid meant the compliment as just a compliment no secondary meaning. It was strange.
"What were you thinking?" Professor Snape tried to ask politely.
"Well, I know it was bad…what was in Neville's cauldron, it was obvious that you would have taken the brunt of it. There was…I felt a really strong need to help, to protect. If I could tell what the incantation was or what exactly it was I did and how I know how to do it…I would. Honestly I would really like to know what I did…I mean I know what happened but…"
"Oddly enough I understand what you are saying. The last part…the sentiments are the same Mr. Potter…" Professor Snape trailed off and nearly chuckled as Harry's stomach grumbled.
"Sorry…"
"Why are you apologizing for your body alerting you that you need to eat, Mr. Potter?"
"Not a clue. Sir."
For the first time in a long time, a really long time a hint of a smile appeared on the Potion's Professor's face. He knew fully that he was intimidating, he had to be. Or at least always had to be when the Dark Lord was very much alive, Severus could not afford to make any kind of attachments to anyone. He had to keep himself guarded and safe, and most of all had to be convincingly indifferent to just about everything. Severus, unnoticeably, shook his mind clear and sent a message down to the kitchens. Harry slightly flinched as a house elf popped into the office with something to eat and drink.
"I will allow you to have you lunch in my office as long as you don't leave a mess Mr. Potter. And do not worry about your next class I will let your Professor know that you might be a little late."
"Thank you Professor." Harry said slightly confused and couldn't help feel a tad worried.
As Severus left his office he had a smirk on his face. He was amused with the look of confusion and worry faintly etched on the young Mr. Potters' face.
Harry sat down at started eating what Professor Snape had requested for him. Harry was careful not to make a mess of any sort, if he did he would most definitely clean it up but did not want to spend that much time making sure that he had cleaned it all up. He didn't have the extra time for a cleanup as he was already going to be a little late to his next class. Once Harry finished his lunch he glanced around to be sure that he left no trace of any kind that he'd had lunch in the Professors' office. Relieved that there was not one crumb of anything Harry quickly let the office and as quickly as he could without running through the halls headed straight to his next class.
The rest of the day went by in a bit of a blur for Harry. He was more focused on what had happened with Professor Snape. It seemed unnatural that the Potions Master would be nice to Harry James Potter. Harry was so used to the harsh treatment he and his friends or well the whole of Gryffindor for probably as long as the Professor taught at the school. Harry thought about what could have happened, though he knew that sending the portrait of Lily and the rare potion ingredient samples probably had a part in it but it couldn't just be that. It wasn't until mid-way through dinner that Harry remembered when he freely spoke his mind and threw the images, the memories of his pertaining to the treatment he received from his relatives, mainly the late Vernon Dursley.
"Harry…" Hermione said softly to get Harry's attention but without startling him too much.
"Huh?"
"You should go up to bed…you don't look so good." Hermione said sounding a bit worried.
"Nothing to worry about Hermione, it's just the pick me up that Madam Pomfrey gave me earlier…the effects have worn off. But you are right. I mean I did promise her that I'd go straight to bed after dinner."
"You think you'll make it alright on your own?"
"I should be fine Hermione, but I appreciate your concern."
"I asked if you thought you'd make it alright on your own…"
"Hermione…I don't know but like I said I should be fine."
"I don't know mate. You aren't all there, not completely alert…easy target you know."
"I'll be fine. I might be not quite myself but I have no doubt that I'd be able to defend myself if need be."
"Harry…"
"Ron, don't forget who I am a descendent of."
"Oh right."
Harry smiled and left the Great Hall with the only destination being his bed. He was a bit concerned about being in such a weakened state due to the lack of sleep the night before and the side effects of the potion he received from the school nurse. Harry hoped that he would be able to tap into the magic that flowed through his veins to defend himself if need be. Though Harry did not know it, he did not have to worry about anything happening as he made his way to Gryffindor Tower. Professor Snape had left the Great Hall shortly after Harry had.
Severus was indeed concerned and worried for Harry, for the son of a friend he once had. No one would suspect anything about why he left the Great Hall after the Gryffindor. They certainly would not think that he had left to keep an eye on the boy. Severus knew that with the weakened state Harry was in that he would indeed be an easy target for certain students that unfortunately in some ways were in his house. Severus had to make sure that the fourteen year old Gryffindor made it safely to his house. Severus was silent as he shadowed Harry throughout the school until Severus watched the boy walk through the portrait hole and the portrait close behind the student. Severus used several passage ways throughout the school to his quarters. He was confident that he had managed all this unseen by anyone.
Harry woke up the following morning early but feeling refreshed. By the time his friends woke and reached the common room, Harry had been sitting on the couch in the common room waiting.
"Harry, how long have you been up?"
"A while, why do you ask Hermione?"
"Have you even slept at all?"
"Yes I have, Hermione. I just slept really good is all."
"So, what did Snape say about what you did in class?" Ron asked.
"Just wanted to know what happened. I knew he was going to ask me and answered the unasked question. He wasn't mad or anything. He also had a few questions concerning what I sent him over the summer…"
"But…" Hermione started to ask.
"I forgot to change my handwriting in my haste to get the packages out…the portrait of my mum and the sample potion ingredients. He knows that I intended to send both anonymously and that I was not trying to bribe him or anything. Of course he wanted to know how I got my hands on the sample potions ingredient and how I came across the portrait of my mum…which he asked about first…"
"What did you tell him?" Ron asked.
"Just that it is difficult to explain. I told him that I want to explain but just not ready to do so yet. He accepted my reply and said he wouldn't push it further and then we got to the part of what happened in class yesterday."
"I want to explain it to him?" Ron asked confused.
"Yes. I just don't know if I should or not. I mean I know he's one of the good guys but…well the position he's in or will be in…I don't want to make things more difficult for him. Of course there is the fact of where exactly the sample potion ingredients came from…although my father never took up the Manor. Only time will tell to be honest."
"Something bad happened to him, didn't it? I mean from the time you remember."
"Yes, Hermione, you could say that."
"What happened?" Violet asked.
"He was killed by Voldemort. I know I probably shouldn't have told you that…"
"Harry I don't think that it will matter really. I mean what you know, what you remember may not happen. And there's already quite a bit that is new to you, things you didn't know before." Ginny said.
Harry nodded in understanding to what Ginny had said. It made sense.
"Hey, what was up with Professor Snape yesterday anyway? I mean it was the first day of classes and having us work on a potion. I know we're in our fourth year but…"
"That's why. We're in our fourth year. Our next class we'll still be working on the potion. It's like how it's always been potions twice a week, one primarily being for lecture and the other for the actual attempt at making the potion. For fourth years I guess he thought he'd change things a bit and see how we'd do or he wanted to catch us off guard and give us a potion first day. Either way he knew no one would be able to complete the potion, the class wasn't long enough. And as you noticed Harry, I did not finish it. He did say that next week would be normal…or well…depending on how next class goes will dictate what happens next week."
"Hermione, you won't have anything to worry about. I mean you'll have the potion completed by the end of the next class and begin on the next item in the syllabus."
"Harry…"
"You will. You always do. It's not a bad thing Hermione. I did not mean it to come out that way…they really should devise an advanced program. Hermione, you should have the opportunity to be in an advanced version of the course. You are the best in our year, maybe even ever or at least one of the best in the history of Hogwarts. You have the aptitude to learn on an advanced level and I mean more advanced than N.E.W.T. level. You have the determination, concentration, the brains and many more qualities that would enable you to study, learn and accomplish with good…with the best grades. You get or at least in some classes or one class you should get because you deserve the best grades. You put more effort into your studies than anyone I've ever seen. Even before I sent myself back in time…you work hard and you should reap the benefits for the work you do."
"Thank you Harry, but most of the Professors' are put off…"
"Hermione you do know how you are in class right?"
"Ron!"
"No, seriously Hermione…if there was a way to show you how you are in class…I don't think that the Professors' are put off by you or how you are in class or with your work but more that you don't give anyone in class a chance to answer any question. You are intelligent we all know this and there are some that are intimidated by it and are afraid to attempt to answer any question in fear of either not answering correctly or not as through as you are. Then again there's also the fact that some are just plain intimidated and fear Professor Snape…with how snarky he is with you and you actually answer the question correctly…"
"Yeah, word for word right out of the text book."
"Like anyone could repeat what he or she read in different words…so what if it was repeated word for word from the bloody book. I mean instead of giving you hell for repeating it word for word he should instead ask what it means to you, you know find out if you actually understand what you read and comprehended it."
"I never thought of it like that, thank you Neville. It's just frustrating when I know the answer and…then again I do see your point about not giving someone else the chance to answer the question…and in the future when answering a question I could add what I got out of it…"
"You might also want to not double the length of essays…when Professors' requests for a two-foot essay don't turn in a four-foot essay." Ron suggested.
"Hey, the only times I do that is when there is so much to say about it. I mean when we're asked to give our personal input…it would not be complete work if I didn't include everything."
"Hermione, I was teasing you. You have your reasons for why your essays are so long and if a certain Professor would see it as though you are putting all your efforts into your work and not on the fact that it's so long…"
"Ron…that's…thank you."
"No problem. Well, now that everyone is up we should get a move on it."
"Hungry are you, Ron?"
"Well, yeah. We had dinner several hours ago."
"Oh, Harry don't forget about the essay Professor Snape assigned to you…"
"How could I forget Hermione? I mean you are one of my best friends, you won't let me forget. And that is a good thing. Saying what I said is meant as a compliment. Just to clarify myself."
"Harry…"
"To be honest I have made myself some reminders to work on the essay. If I thought about it I could have started working on it yesterday before dinner. All I could think about though was getting through dinner and to bed. I have plenty of time today and tomorrow. It's not due until dinner tomorrow…plenty of time. I think there's plenty of time."
"It's the first week back there should be plenty of time. I mean I don't think that all the Professors' will overload us. Or well, I hope they won't."
"Harry when you were asking what was up with Professor Snape having us work on a potion first day…you seemed and still seem to be surprised…"
"I just don't remember if that's what happened before. I don't think that it did because I think that it would have felt familiar and nothing felt familiar…aside from what I did the night before returning to school. It just seems weird that some things are already changing and I haven't done much at least I don't think I've changed all that much. Don't worry Ron we're going, although you don't have to wait for us. Seriously, Ron you don't have to worry breakfast sounds really good at the moment and as you said it has been several hours since dinner."
Though Harry was feeling a lot better he still had difficulties trying to stay awake during History of Magic and was quite relieved when the class ended and was looking forward to Charms. Charms did have a slight slow start but once the drowsiness wore off from History of Magic it was a different story. As they left Charms and headed to the Great Hall for lunch Harry's mind was on the essay Professor Snape had assigned him. He was nearly done reading the chapter and knew that he would have to start reading the chapter at the beginning since he could not recall what he had already read. He hoped that he would be able to retain it this time and that the pressure of the essay being due by dinner the following evening would not interfere with what he had to do.
Once Harry had his fill of food he got up and left the Great Hall. He found a fairly quiet spot and pulled out his potions book and found the beginning of the chapter and started to read again. When he heard the chime signaling that it was time for the next class he reluctantly marked his place, put the book away and headed on down to the green houses for Herbology. After class Harry went straight to the Gryffindor Common Room. He tried to read more on the chapter but kept losing his place due to looking up to see what the commotion was all about. After this happening several times he gave up and made his way down to the Great Hall for dinner with his book bag slung over his shoulder.
"Harry, why do you have your book bag with you?"
"Because, Ron, I need to work on the essay that Professor Snape gave me to do yesterday. The common room is not going to be ideal to try to work on it and I am sure that the library will be full so after dinner I'm going to the Room of Requirement."
"But you have until dinner tomorrow to turn it in."
"Exactly Ron, I only have until dinner tomorrow to turn it in and I still have to finish reading the chapter. We've gone over this before there is no point in waiting until the last minute to get it done. Any way I won't have enough time throughout the day tomorrow to get it done on time. The more I get done the better plus I have other assignments to do aside from the one Professor Snape gave me. I'm not saying that you have to work on your assignments though it would be a good idea for you to do so. Although, so far, most of our assignments are not due until next week and we will have the weekend to work on them."
"Not the whole weekend?"
"It will be if you put it all off to the last minute. In the spare time that we have during the week we need to work on assignments, if we want the weekend for relaxing and fun of course then it seems that it would be wise to get as much school work done during the week."
"Harry's right, Ron, which this weekend we should make a schedule for studying since that has helped in the past it should work now as well."
"I suppose you both have a point."
Harry smiled and gave a soft chuckle as he started to eat his dinner before going off to the Room of Requirement. Nearly to his destination Harry was startled by a sound.
"Whoa Harry it's just me."
"Draco please don't do that."
"Sorry."
"Is everything alright?"
"Yeah. I was just wondering why you haven't reported Fudge for what he did to you and Sirius?"
"I have no proof. No one would believe me without proof so why bother? I know I could anonymously put something out there to cause some pause and possibly result in an investigation but it wouldn't go anywhere, even if Sirius and I were to come forward. Any way I'd rather not go through that spot light."
"Still, I think you should…"
"He's right you know." A female voice said softly causing Harry and Draco to jump.
"Who…"
"I'm Mercedes, two years behind both of you and in Ravenclaw. Not to worry I won't say anything about the two of you being…shall I say friendly…in a platonic sort of way of course. I really don't care about the stupid rivalry between the Houses. I have been wondering why you never said anything or tried to have a case against the Minister of Magic. It has been quite a while since the incident at Gringotts and since I haven't heard anything about it…I followed you and waited…only because Harry you do have proof of what the Minister did."
"How? What?"
"Me."
"You?" Harry and Draco said confused.
"Yes me. See I was there when it happened. My parents were there taking care of something and well most don't notice me or at least I am hardly ever acknowledged. Most of the time I feel like I'm invisible or don't exist."
"I've noticed your existence Mercedes. Why would you feel..?"
"That's just the way it is Draco. Look when I was at Gringotts …the Minister looked in my direction. I can't say that he looked at me because it was more like he was looking through me. The point is I was there, I saw and heard. I tried to tell my parents but as usual they were busy. I'm not complaining not really. They treat me really good and I love them and I know they love me. They just have a lot on their minds most of which I have no clue about and probably too young to know or understand. I did talk to my Aunt though and she assisted me with extracting the memory of what happened at Gringotts and she has it for safe keeping. I've thought about doing something but…"
"The only thing that has kept me from doing anything is no way to prove it. Do you have a way to contact your Aunt?"
"Aside from using an owl from the Owlery, no and every time I do contact her it takes forever. She lives quite a distance away when not visiting us and it seems to take a toll on the owls."
"Write your Aunt and get the letter to me. I'll send it with my owl, Hedwig. She's pretty quick and can handle long trips."
"I'll go do that now."
"Thank you Mercedes."
"It's the right thing to do. Personally I don't think that Cornelius Fudge should be our Minster. If he's willing to do what he did to you and your Godfather it scares me what he could and would do in other situations. I mean, how many times has he done that to? How many witches and wizards lost out on what was rightfully theirs?"
"With any luck we might be able to uncover what the Minister has actually been up to aside from his job."
"Harry, when would be a good time to…"
"Any time really. As soon as you finish the letter to your Aunt hand it to me as soon as you can. The first time you see me. Oh, Mercedes if you ever want to talk or just hang out with me and my friends you are more than welcome to. I am sure that Violet would love to have someone around in her year."
"Thank you. I just might. I'll definitely keep it in mind. I'll see you later then. It's obvious that you are or were on your way somewhere to study."
"She seems okay. I mean trustworthy." Draco commented after Mercedes left.
"I think we can trust her. I mean she did mean it when she said that she doesn't care about the House rivalries."
"Not to mention that she is helping you with what Fudge did."
"Yeah, that too. And I think we have chanced it long enough Draco…"
"I know what you mean. Is it still on for this weekend? Dudley said something about meeting up with everyone…"
"Oh yeah. I almost forgot. Thanks for the reminder and yes it's still on."
"See you then."
"Be careful Draco."
"I will." Draco said as he left Harry in the hallway.
Harry finally reached the Room of Requirement and tried to work on the assignment that was due in less than twenty-four hours. It was not going as to how he had planned. He couldn't stop thinking about what Mercedes had said, she had been there, she heard and saw. She felt invisible. The Minister, as Mercedes had put it looked right through her. Harry had a feeling that there was something about the little Ravenclaw. In ways Mercedes seemed familiar to Harry as though he'd seen her before and not just around school but he couldn't put his finger on it. Harry just couldn't seem to concentrate on his purpose for being where he was. All he could think of was what kind of scrutiny the Minister would be under once this got out and what exactly was with Mercedes. The next time Harry had the opportunity to speak with the Ravenclaw he was going to ask her what her last name was. Harry just had a feeling that knowing her last name would be informative and revealing. Finally he was able to shake his thoughts clear of what was to come and turned to his potions book. Starting at the beginning of the chapter again Harry begun reading and did not stop until he finished the chapter.
After finishing the chapter Harry checked the time and saw that he still had time and pulled out a bottle of ink, a quill and some parchment. Harry stat there for a while thinking of the chapter he had just read and then started to write the essay. He stopped several times to cross reference the potion ingredients and what each did as well as other ingredients that would or could do the same thing and looked at the differences closer than most would but probably not as close as Hermione would though. Harry had been so completely consumed with the essay that he had not paid attention to the time. It was late, past curfew for a fourth year. He wasn't really aware of how tired he had become though he fought sleep and continued to work on the essay. At least until his body gave in to sleep.
"Harry Potter must wakes up." A soft but squeaky voice echoed in the Room of Requirement.
Harry barely budged in his sleep. The third time the voice spoke it was louder, a lot louder and this woke Harry with a start.
"Whose there?"
"Harry Potter." Squeaked out the voice.
"Dobby?"
"Yes Harry Potter. Harry Potter must wakes up. Harry Potter will be late."
"What?"
"Harry Potter no time for breakfast. Harry Potter must hurries to class."
"What? It's morning already? But…"
"Harry Potter studies all night not in bed."
"I…I fell asleep in the Room of Requirement…" Harry sputtered as he looked down at the table he had been sitting at to see that his essay was nearly complete and not damaged in any way during his sleep.
"Yes. Harry Potter must hurries to class."
"Oh crap. I can't be late to his class again. He will not be so kind this time I'm sure." Harry said as he carefully but quickly put his things away and cast a refreshing charm on himself and his clothes before darting out of the Room of Requirement all the way through the castle until he found himself outside of the Potions Lab classroom.
Harry managed to calm his breathing and quickly entered the class room. He made his way to where Ron and Hermione were sitting. Just as Harry sat down in his seat he could hear the chime indicating that classes were to start.
"Now that everyone has arrived some of you will be starting over from scratch on the potion that you started on Monday, some of you will be finishing what you started and then of course one of you will be making a first attempt. For those that finish their potion before class ends shall bottle their potential completed potion and bring it to me and you will then begin the essay I mentioned on Monday to be turned in Monday at the start of class and hopefully though I doubt it, we will be able to move on to the next potion."
Professor Snape then handed out vials that were varying in partially being full of some kind of substance there had only been a few, maybe three. These vials were passed out with a small piece of parchment attached to each vial and given to the corresponding student. The rest of the class with the exception of Harry were handed pieces of parchment, these students as they received their parchment from the Professor each either cringed, whimpered or looked to be near tears.
Hermione being one of the few that had been given her vial back with a small piece of parchment went straight to work picking up where she had left off on Monday. The one or two shortly after Hermione did the same. Harry along with the rest of the class set up his cauldron and went to the cupboards and gathered the ingredients he needed for the potion and returned to where he would be working with Hermione and Ron. Briefly Harry, out of habit, glanced around the class room and then hastily went to work on the task as hand. Having read the chapter, parts of it multiple times, and being nearly done with the essay Harry was having no problems with his potion. With having the class time and what he worked on the previous night Harry was able to turn in a sample of a completed potion shortly after Hermione turned hers in. Harry did not miss the impressed look in Professor Snape's eyes or expression on his face. Though this only lasted a split second if even that long but Harry knew what he saw on his Professor's face in the Professor's eyes. Harry was not sure what kind of marks he would receive for the potion but it did not matter to him, he felt he had done a good job and was proud of himself. The potion was at least the correct color and consistency and that was enough for him at the moment any way.
After class ended Harry made his way to the library to work on the essay and hopefully have it finished by lunch. The first thing Harry did once finding a place to work on the essay was read over what he had already written. Harry finished the essay not long after picking up where he had left off the night before. There was still quite a bit of time until lunch so he started working on his other assignments that he had for his other classes. Harry had been working at a fair pace and lost track of time.
"Harry you need to eat something. You missed breakfast you can't miss lunch too." Hermione said softly.
"Huh?" Harry said a bit confused as he looked up.
"Lunch is half over. And are you sure you are feeling alright? It just doesn't seem like you to be studying at a slightly slower pace than I used to."
"I finished my essay for Professor Snape and since I still had time until lunch I figured I'd get a start on all the other essay's our teachers assigned. I just lost track of the time."
Hermione carefully looked and then very quietly said, "I brought you something to eat to at least hold you over until dinner but you'll have to leave the library. Madam Pince would blow her top if she caught anyone eating in the library."
"Thanks Hermione." Harry said as he put his books, parchment, quill and ink away.
"Oh, there's a Ravenclaw looking for you. I think she said her name is Mercedes."
"Bollocks! I'll catch her at dinner."
"Who is she?"
"Proof."
"What?"
"She was at Gringotts when Sirius and I were there to claim my inheritance. She heard everything and saw what he did. She has a letter for her Aunt and I'm letting her borrow Hedwig to send it. Fudge is going to be interrogated…or at least I hope so. If nothing else maybe it will result with enough of the Wizarding community losing faith in the Minister that he'll have to step down or just be replaced."
"Why didn't she say anything before?"
"She was waiting to see what I would have done and also not to mention that she would not have been able to know that Sirius and I remembered what happened. She overheard me talking with Dr…you know. He was asking me why I haven't done anything about what Fudge did to me and Sirius."
"Harry…"
"Relax Hermione. Mercedes said she wouldn't tell anyone. She's basically neutral where it concerns the House rivalries. She wants to help because it's the right thing to do."
"What do you know about her?"
"Just that she's in Ravenclaw, could care less about the House rivalries, she is a witness to what Fudge did."
"What is her last name? I mean…I don't know she seems sort of familiar. Like she resembles someone we know kind of familiar."
"I know what you mean. I don't know her last name yet. For me it's like I've seen her face somewhere outside of school but I just can't figure it out. I'm hoping and I have a feeling that knowing her last name will sort it out."
"Okay, enough talk finish your food and quickly we're nearly to class. Professor McGonagall would murder you if brought food into her class room. "
"I think I'd rather her murder me for bringing food into her class room than murder me for being late and making you late. You go on ahead. I'll be there as soon as I finish eating."
Hermione glanced at Harry. She did not mask her concern or wonder what he might be up to.
"Hermione, I give you my word as a wizard and as your cousin that as soon as I finish eating I'll be in and that I'm not going to go anywhere other than to class."
"Okay."
Once Hermione disappeared into the class room, Harry quickly finished eating. He was starved and did not want Hermione to see him eat as one would expect to see Ron eating. Harry refused to let anyone, especially a female see him eat like a pig. He was just so hungry that he couldn't help himself. He vowed to eat a big dinner and to make precautions in the future so that he wouldn't miss any meals. Once finished eating Harry brushed his mouth to wipe away any possible crumbs and wiped his hands on his robes before walking into class. He found it difficult to focus in Transfiguration and was full aware of Professor McGonagall noticing this. Harry had almost completed the task when the class ended. He only caught that there was to be an essay but as what the essay was about he did not know and was going to have to ask Hermione at some point.
"Mr. Potter."
"Yes, Professor."
"I would like a word with you before you go."
Harry nodded and started to panic. He knew he was going to hear it for being distracted. As his friends left the class room he let them that he'd meet them in the common room. After all students left, Harry walked up to Professor McGonagall's desk.
"Mr. Potter how are you feeling?"
"Fine."
"You seemed distracted in class and I am wondering why."
"Just other things on my mind that I can't seem to clear out for class and I apologize for that. I'd promise to not let it happen again but that is a promise that I cannot make since it probably won't be the only time it happens."
"And what was on your mind that had you distracted?"
"It's kind of a long story. A long enough story that can't be told in the few minutes before your next class files in."
"Very well. Do try to be focused in class in the future."
"I will do my best Professor."
Harry had reached the door to leave and stopped. He turned around and politely asked what the essay was she had assigned. After Professor McGonagall told Harry what the essay was on he smiled a thank you and left.
As Harry entered the common room he spotted his friends sitting where the used to sit all the time at a round table in a corner. He went straight to where they were, took a seat and pulled out his books and everything else he would need to work on or finish assignments that had been given out during the week.
"Harry, what did McGonagall want?"
"Just wanted to know what had me distracted in her class. Hermione you really worry too much."
"So. I worry about those I care about, deal with it."
"Fair enough."
"So, why were you distracted?" Ron asked curiously.
"Mercedes. She's a Ravenclaw, same year as Violet."
"What about her? She's strange…"
"Ron for your information she was there at Gringotts when Fudge tried to Obliviate me and Sirius. I have proof, a witness to what the Minister did. She's basically alone and feels invisible. When she was at Gringotts …the way she described how Fudge…she said that it was as though Fudge looked right through her as though she wasn't even there. He didn't see her and sadly enough I didn't see her either. I am not sure where she was exactly but she was close enough to see everyone and to hear what we said. I don't know why…she feels as though no one notices her. I don't think…I just know that it has not been intentional by others but their actions or lack of them has come across or at least Mercedes interprets it to be that no one notices her. This has obviously gone on for years, with all that said could it be possible that after several years of feeling that way that at times she actually is invisible in a sense. When I say invisible I mean like disillusioned or something."
"I don't know. But it could be possible I suppose. I haven't ever come across anything like that but it doesn't mean that it's not possible. Ron…'
"I don't know and I have no idea if my parents would have heard or would know anything about something like that. I do agree that it could be possible though. You could try asking Fred or George hell Ginny might even know something for all I know. It won't hurt to ask them. Why not ask Dumbledore about it? I'm sure he'd know something."
"Well I have options as to find out about it."
"Harry, what's her last name?"
"Don't know Neville. I will find out and soon. I know she's looking for me... she has a letter for her Aunt. I offered to let her use Hedwig to send it to her aunt. In fact I should probably send a short letter as well. It will be nice to have this out in the open not that I am looking forward to the outcome or at least part of the outcome of all this."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, Ron, Fudge used 'Obliviate' on me and Sirius. It was only a temporary success since we remembered what happened not too long after we returned. Have that added onto me being the only being to survive the killing curse. Yes we know that it happened because of my mum but the wizarding community sees it as though I am some powerful…so I am but…"
"We get what you are saying Harry."
"Thanks Hermione."
"Harry if the Minister is able to dismiss this…"
"It will be interesting to see him try to dismiss it, Ron. Mercedes with the help of her Aunt have a vial containing Mercedes' memory of the incident. I am sure that they will thoroughly check it out to validate the truthfulness of the memory."
"You know that Fudge will draw this out as long as he can."
"True but still some will question if Fudge is really the right one for the position of Minster of Magic and if enough question that then maybe we'll have someone worthy of being the Minister of Magic."
"You know this would be perfect to send to Rita Skeeter. Knowing how she is…I mean seriously can you imagine the scrutiny the Minister would be under. She won't give up. If she were to get wind of this and constantly writes about it there will have to be and investigation on the Minister."
"You know Hermione that is not a bad idea. I think that this just might slip into Rita Skeeter's hands. At least some of it anyway but first I have to contact Mercedes' aunt."
The conversation came to an abrupt halt as the rest of Gryffindor filed in after the last classes of the day to drop off their things and then head on down to the Great Hall for dinner.
A/N: How about that…I did it…I set a challenge for myself to have the rest of my chapters for this story to be a minimum of ten thousand words…I reached that and then some. I am so proud of myself right now. Especially since I haven't been able to work on this chapter for a while…being sick really sucks. Also, I really hate allergies.
I also apologize if there are points in this chapter that I went too slow or too fast or a combination of both.
I must add a warning. At some point there will be gaps in between chapters…large gaps than there have been. The notes I have for this story are nearly at an end so I will be then writing whatever pops into my head at the time, please bear with me. Not to worry though I should have enough notes for a few more chapters, I think I can get away with saying at least two more chapters. Maybe more chapters but definitely at least two more chapters before I have covered all the notes/ideas that I have at this time.
Any thoughts, comments, suggestions are welcome.
