Chapter 96

The following morning Hermione nearly skipped all the way to the Great Hall. Before leaving Harry suggested that they bring their book bags with them instead of having to return to their common room to gather them before going to the library. It made more sense since Hermione would not budge from insisting on going to the library as soon as they finished breakfast. Hermione was about to argue that the extra activity would be good for but Harry had cut her off before she could get started. Harry brought up that Madam Pomfrey would not be happy and would not approve of it. This changed Hermione's though process instantly and agreed with Harry.

In the library Harry was unable to work on some assignments. He could not take his eyes off of Hermione as she inspected just about every tiny speck of the library as though she had never been in one. It was amusing to Harry as well as brought him happiness seeing Hermione being basically herself in a library it was refreshing. He knew without a doubt that Hermione would be up to herself completely before too much longer. In fact he would be really surprised if she wasn't allowed to return to classes after the Christmas holidays. Harry knew better than to say this to her so he refrained…constantly refrained from saying anything about it.

Hermione finally returned to the table where Harry was currently sitting as well as where she had left her book bag. She did not return to the table empty handed either.

"What in the name of Merlin are you doing Hermione?" Harry asked in a whisper though they were the only ones in the library aside from Madam Pince, the librarian.

"Just reading up on a specific subject." Hermione replied simply with a shrug of her shoulders.

"Hermione, all these books are on…"

"Certain types of magic, yes I know. These books have nothing close to what the one you have been reading every night. I'm just reading up on it okay. I promise Harry. These books are more so just theory…um…reference books. There are no spells or instructions at all. Trust me I know. I glanced through them a while back before accepting that the only book that could assist me in helping you was somewhere else. I am curious about something and wondering…about certain things."

"Like what?"

"I'm not telling you." Hermione said with a smirk on her voice and a hint of a challenge on the near horizon in her voice.

"Come on Hermione…"

"Not until you tell me what has been in that mind of yours. Why you wanted the book? I know there is more to it than what you told me."

"I should have known that you were going to go that route. And I also should have known that you would know that there is something specific in my head in regard to the book."

"If you spill I'll spill."

"Hahaha…I don't know Hermione. Even though it is just a thought I don't think that you would like it. that aside there is no way that I'd tell here in the library. One it is too quiet in here, quieter than it normally is."

Hermione eyed Harry suspiciously. She had a feeling that he was trying to find something that he could use to help her out. If that was indeed the case she was ready to talk him out of going further than it just being a thought. Especially since the Tir-Wizard Tournament wasn't too far off from beginning. He had to prepare for it and be ready regardless of the fact that he already knows what is in store for him.

Neither of the two realized the time until the librarian informed them. Lunch had begun twenty minutes prior. They quickly, quietly and carefully thanked the librarian as they packed up their things. Harry helped Hermione return all the books that she had pulled out to read through. Without any thought, both of them ran part way to the Great Hall. The realization hit Harry and immediately stopped himself and Hermione. By the time they entered the Great Hall neither was panting as though they had ran at all. Thankfully since the nurse had been watching the door and then them the moment they entered. It wasn't so much that the nurse was watching them but that she was watching them closely for anything and everything.

After lunch was over Harry and Hermione at a steady pace headed for their quarters. No sooner had they arrived the nurse was entering the common room. The checkups went well and the nurse gave them the all clear and that they could return to the library later that evening. Though Madam Pomfrey still had concern for the young witch she was quite pleased and happy to see the progress with the recovery. The nurse was confident that Miss. Granger would make a full recovery and quite possibly sooner rather than later.

The rest of the week found Harry and Hermione in the library in between breakfast and lunch and lunch and dinner. Sometimes only the two of them were sitting at the table either actually working on assignments or reading other material unrelated to school work. When any of their friends did not have a class he or she would join the duo in the library. Most of the time they would softly chat as to not disturb other student s when they were there and as to not upset the librarian and get tossed out. Also there were the times when all would complete or work an assignment that was due the following week, though these moments were quite rare.

Over time Hermione was allowed to start spending some time outside as long as the weather was not severe. With permission from the nurse and the Headmaster, Harry and Hermione twice a week would go down and see Hagrid. This brightened the day for the half-giant and it showed as plain as day. Hagrid took extra care when hugging Hermione and to the surprise of both Harry and Hermione, Hagrid actually managed to give Hermione as close as he could, a decent hug. That is Hermione did not feel that the air was being forced out of her lungs nor did she feel as though all her bones were about to break.

Three weeks before the Christmas holidays had Hermione in good spirits since she had received the best news. Firstly, she was allowed to perform basic, simply first year spells and charms with the prospect of more powerful ones depending on how it affected her magic or didn't affect it. Secondly, if things went well Madam Pomfrey would allow Hermione to add in an hour each day with Professor McGonagall to work on Transfiguration in preparation of returning to classes. And lastly, if all went extremely well Hermione would be able to return to classes after the Christmas holidays.

Hermione hoped with all she had that nothing would cause a setback. She was excited about her future and relieved that a serious error on her part had not taken away one of the best things to ever happen to her. At eleven she found out that she was a witch, at the time a Muggle-born witch, she made friends and discovered that she actually is a half-blood witch at the same time as finding out that she is related by blood to one of her best friends whom she had already had a familial relationship with to begin with. Everything was looking up for her.

While sitting in the library going over a new assignment she began pondering her life and realized that she indeed wanted to know more about her background, more about her family. More specifically, she wanted to know more about her father's side of the family since she knew very little, basically she knew squat about that side of her family. Who were they? What kind of witches and wizards were they? Were they for the side of the light? Were they influential? What organizations were they affiliated with? Hermione suddenly pushed her assignment from her and dug out a fresh bit of parchment and quickly scratched out a short note to her father inquiring about his surname prior to marrying her mother. Once finished she rolled it up and with a delighted smile on her face used a simple spell to secure the note closed during delivery and remain in place until delivered. Hermione then put away her school work and headed out to the Owlery and have one of the owls deliver it.

Once reaching the Owlery, Hermione carefully entered not wanting to slip on the muck on the floor. Hermione glanced around the Owlery to enable her to select just the right owl for her note. Within seconds Hermione's eyes landed on Hedwig.

"Hedwig. I would really appreciate it if you would come down here. I have short letter that needs to be delivered to my father…" Hermione stopped attempting to lure the owl down. The owl spread her wings and landed in front of Hermione on a perch. "I thought you would like something to do. I need this to get my home as soon as possible but no over doing it." Hermione said instructively in the beginning but firmly at the end.

Hedwig held out one of her legs so that Hermione could attach the small scroll. Once the scroll was secure, Hedwig hooted and gave Hermione a gentle nip before flying off into the night.

Hermione headed back down to the seventh floor and around the corner from the entrance to Gryffindor House with a smile on her face and a slight bounce to her steps. She was excited and could feel the anticipation creeping into her at the prospect of knowing more about her family line.

"You're in a good mood Hermione." Harry observed aloud as she seemed to skip or float inside. Harry's eyes were open wider than usual but were not bulging. His eyebrows were slightly arched and a pleasant smile was plastered onto his face.

"Of course I am. I am almost back to normal."

"No offense…but…um…you smell like you were up in the Owlery." Harry commented while holding his breath and his face scrunched up.

"Gee thanks Harry." Hermione said as though she was truly insulted, but she couldn't hold the expression. "There's a good reason for that, Harry." She said with a hint of sarcasm in her voice. "I was in the Owlery." Hermione finished with a smile on her face.

"Smart ass." Harry said with sarcasm strong in his voice.

"Thanks. I know I am." Hermione replied to the comment as though it was a compliment. She proceeded to her room to bathe. "Oh, Harry, don't forget that you are a wizard and you can rid the room and air of the stench of the Owlery." Hermione said looking over her shoulder as reached her room before quickly entering.

Harry chuckled and faintly smirked as he threw a small but soft pillow at Hermione's closed door.

After Harry freshened the air and Hermione had returned to the small common room freshly showered with clean clothes on they went for a walk around the castle. Hermione had actually wanted to walk around the grounds but it was cold and storming outside. The duo eventually found the rest of their friends and joined them. Harry and Hermione had just joined the discussion that had been going on when the Headmaster walked up to them.

"If you don't mind I would like to barrow Miss. Granger and Mr. Potter for a moment." Dumbledore said kindly.

"What is it, sir?" Hermione asked nervously, her eyes showing signs of fear.

"Nothing to worry about Miss. Granger, I would just like a word with the both of you."

Hermione sighed shakily as Harry shrugged his shoulders before turning to Hermione and reassuring her that it couldn't be anything bad. Both of them followed the Headmaster through the school all the way to his office. As they entered they noticed that Professor Snape and McGonagall and the school nurse were already there waiting.

"This is about the article from the Daily Prophet and the book Hermione used." Harry stated calmly once the door was shut any everyone had taken a seat.

"Yes, Harry it is. I think that we should begin with the article in the Daily Prophet." Professor Dumbledore suggested.

"Have there been other mentions of what happened in other editions or just the one so far?" Hermione asked, her brow furrowed and it was obvious she was slightly unnerved.

"Only the one mention Miss. Granger." Professor Dumbledore answered calmly and reassuringly.

"What exactly do you want to know?" Harry inquired nervously. He wasn't sure if he would be comfortable fully explaining with everyone that was present in the room.

"Um…before this goes much further, Harry has no clue as to what was in the article you are all referring to. Aside from what he heard when he was in the infirmary and that wasn't much."

"Good point Miss. Granger." Professor Dumbledore said quickly before anyone else in the room could comment on what she had said.

"I take it that someone here has a copy of the article from the Daily Prophet?"

"Indeed Harry, just give me a second." Dumbledore said as he rummaged through a drawer. "Here you go Harry." Dumbledore said as he handed Harry the copy of the Daily Prophet.

Hermione snagged the copy from Harry once he finished reading the article.

Harry remained silent as he thought about what to say.

"The article explains why I was there, I don't…oh, you want to know how it is that we remember what happened. From what I was told and remember I was arguing with the Minister. I just wanted to claim my inheritance so that I wouldn't have to worry about the deadline, about missing the deadline. Sirius backed me up with being able to claim it. I was quite pissed. Sirius was trying to calm me down, I was engulfed in a red glow and when Sirius touched my shoulder the red glow surrounded him too. That's when the Minister casted the memory charm. I mean it did work for a while. It wasn't long after we returned to Sirius' that it all came crashing back. I would think that the red glow shielded us from the full brunt of the memory charm or the long term effect from the memory charm. It's just an idea or though as to how it is possible that we remember, I don't know for sure. Honestly I don't care how it was possible, I'm just glad that I do remember. Once everything flooded back I was so angry, so pissed off that I declared myself head of house of the property that was included in the inheritance."

"I've never hear of such an occurrence, not like this." Madam Pomfrey said astonished.

"There's never been anyone that is a direct descendant of Morgan le Fay and Merlin has there?" Harry cringed a little and then added, "I didn't mean for that come out like it did…my intention was not to be rude or sarcastic…I just…"

"It's alright Harry, we understand." Dumbledore said reassuringly. "Or at least will understand soon." Dumbledore added firmly.

"It looks like it's my turn now." Hermione muttered louder that she intended. When she looked up she realized that everyone in the room had heard her. As her face became flushed she closed her eyes and shook her head.

"What all can you tell us about this book? Other than what you briefly explained when you needed to retrieve it."

"It's old. Really old. It dates back to before the founders of Hogwarts were in existence. There is nothing dark about the book or what the book contains. And there never will be as long the book remains in the right hands and safely guarded. Sorry, I'm just not sure what else to say about it."

"Out of curiosity Miss. Granger, where is the book?" Professor Snape asked with a firm expression on his face.

"Safe. It's locked in my trunk in my dorm room in Gryffindor House. I know Professor that's not exactly all that safe. The book is also shrunk to a size no one would think that it wasn't at its normal size. I would actually like to get to Sirius so he can put the back where it belongs."

"Ah, Severus relax. I am sure that Harry will allow us the opportunity to read through this book at some time in the future. As we all know, the Minister is due to be here any day now and I would rather the Minister not be able to get his hands on it." Dumbledore said in a tone to keep all parties in a calm mood and demeanor.

"Then they should do it immediately Headmaster. For all we know the Minster could be here already or on his way. The reason he hasn't been here is due to some chaos that has been happening at the Ministry." Madam Pomfrey added.

"I agree Poppy. Both of you go now and do what needs to be done."

"Yes, sir." Harry replied as he and Hermione stood.

For Madam Pomfreys' sake, Harry and Hermione hastily headed for the door. Once the door closed behind them, they took off in a run. Being careful with the spiraling staircase as it would not do them any good if either injured themselves. The instant their feet the floor they took off in a dead run all the way to Gryffindor House. As they reached the portrait they realized that they had no clue as to the password. Both cursed and then made the few paces needed to reach their temporary housing and then flooed into the Gryffindor common room. Harry followed Hermione all the way to the door leading to the girls' dormitories but remained at the door. He was not going to try to attempt to follower her. Harry did not want to end up sliding all way down from however he might have reached.

While Harry waited for Hermione he had a better thought than trying to get a hold of Sirius to take the book.

"Okay Harry lets hurry and…"

"I have a better idea."

"What?"

"I'm not certain that it will work but I have to try it would be faster…"

"Then do it."

"SPARKY!"

-POP-

"Master Harry…"

"Sparky here take this…Hermione return it to its normal size…Sparky take this book back to the…" Harry paused, looked around and the softly said, "Manor and back in its place in the library."

"Yes Master Harry. Sparky takes cares of it."

Hermione handed Sparky the book and the next instant the elf was gone. The two teenagers looked at each other and sighed. Relief washed over them and then they broke out laughing knowing that the original was still on the premises and only four individuals knew about it.

A few minutes passed and the duo headed back out of the Gryffindor common. They went in search for their friends. It did not take long for them to locate the group.

"Before anyone asks about what Dumbledore wanted, we'll tell you later." Hermione said quickly before anyone could even think of making a comment or otherwise.

That evening after Harry and Hermione finished their dinner they headed out to the library. Once they had decided on the best spot Harry sat at the table, silently holding the table. Hermione returned with a few books that she had randomly plucked off of a few shelves. Though they were not completely out in the open Hermione felt that it would be a good idea to have a few books out. While randomly plucking the books Hermione realized that they should have stopped off and picked up their book bags but there was no sense in going and going just that since they were already in the library.

"I really wish that the Minister would just get here so that the whole thing can just be over and done with." Harry whispered to Hermione, his uneasiness was clearly showing.

"I agree and understand or well mostly understand. What else is bothering you about the Minster's impending arrival?"

"Ammon Velius. I want to try and look up on him. Try to find out as much as possible about him or anything really. All this time we have been coming to the library I never once thought…"

"Harry! Give yourself a break, I mean you were injured in a class, I used some rare magic without checking for any preparations and look at where we are now and what has gone on in between. Of course Ammon Velius would slip your mind for a time. Not that you're going to be have the time to do much looking into him…the tournament Harry."

"Hermione…"

"Regardless! After all this…down time you've had…the work and preparations you'll need to do is physical."

"Hey! That was low…"

"No it wasn't and you know you it. I'm just saying that you haven't been doing much…for example Harry, Victor Krum and Fleur Delacour are in better shape than you are at the moment and that is just when you barely look at the situation. They are out and about working their muscles and such, you spent a bit of time in the infirmary before and after I helped and now…can't say that what have been doing is going to help you be ready for the tournament adequately in the physical aspect of it all. You know I am right so stop acting like you've been insulted. And I know…beyond your control. That is what I was trying to tell you."

"How do you propose that I work on that? I'm not going to jog around the grounds…"

"Room of Requirement of course."

Harry only shook his head. He could not argue with Hermione in regard to his current physical state and felt a bit stupid. The Room of Requirement should have been obvious to him.

"Harry…"

"Hermione you're right…"

"No, not that…look. Don't get me wrong, I am glad that they got it with the in not so many words to meet here in the library…"

"But what?"

"I just hope that with all of them showing up at the same doesn't cause suspicion…"

"I'm sure that it will be alright."

Before anything more could be said most of their friends had reached their table. After everyone had taken a seat, Harry and Hermione gave a quick but thorough glance around just to be sure. Once both Harry and Hermione were satisfied that it would be alright to talk without unwanted listeners Harry told them what Dumbledore had wanted to speak with himself and Hermione about as well as calling Sparky to return the book where it belongs. Harry did feel bad but only a little for not telling all of them that there was still a copy of the book in the castle. He just didn't want too many knowing as it would be too much of a risk that this information could end up slipping out. Harry already felt that too many knew about it. Harry resolved to tell the rest but only once the Minister had been there and left.

Hermione let out a sigh of relief when their friends pulled out their school books and other materials. Few actually were working on an assignment or at least looked as though they were working on something. Fred, George and Ron only had things out but it was obvious that they weren't doing any kind of work. Surprisingly this did not seem to bother Hermione much. She couldn't exactly say anything to them about it since she did not have anything class related with her and neither did Harry. Hermione was happy that some of them were actually trying to make an effort.

As the few that were working on an assignment had finished and put their things away the librarian reached their table. Since they had only been discussing Hermione's progress in her recovery, what she was looking forward to most when she is released from Madam Pomfreys' care completely and of course the upcoming tournament there was nothing to worry about.

"Madam Pince, were we getting too loud?" Hermione asked truly curious and a bit worried that they had become too loud.

"Not at all Miss. Granger, no it is well the library is about to close and curfew for a few of you is approaching and I wouldn't want any of you in trouble for being out after curfew. Every time all of you are in here you are really quiet and respectful regardless if you are actually working on something for a class or not."

"Thank you. We'll be going then." Hermione said with a broad smile as she was relived they had not become too loud. She was also truly grateful that the librarian had been kind enough to let them know that the library was closing soon and that, even though the librarian did specify, Violet and Mercedes' curfew was nearing.

The group gathered their things and headed out of the library. Once in the hall Harry kindly requested that in the future not all of them meet him and Hermione at once all the time and that it would not hurt any of them to actually get an assignment or two out of the way while in the library. the less suspicion there is as to why they are always in a group will be not as much especially once the Minister arrives. All agreed and let Harry know that they'd figure out a schedule of sorts.

Violet and Mercedes quickly wished the group a good night before making their way through the castle to their respective Houses, nearly running. The rest of the group headed on up to the seventh floor, Harry and Hermione leaving the group as they walked around the corner to their house.

"You know, as much as I am looking forward to complete freedom without Madam Pomfreys' over watchful eye on me…I am so going to miss this place." Hermione said a little sadly once they entered their common room.

"You are going to miss this?" Harry asked surprised as he waved his hands in a circular motion with raised eye brows and his eyes open a bit wider than normally.

"Yes." Hermione answered quietly, borderline shyly with a small smile on her face. "I know I have complained and remaining here will remind why I was, in a sense, assigned to this but with it about to come to an end…I'm already beginning to miss being here. Once back in Gryffindor House the lack of peace and quiet will get on my nerves instantly. I do wish that I appreciated the solitude from day one."

"Hmm." Harry said with a smile trying his hardest not to laugh. "I understand what you are saying." Harry said slightly chuckling. "Sorry. Look, believe it or not I'm going to miss this place too. It would have even been better if the circumstance surrounding the reason for having this place were different."

"If only, but then again if not for the circumstance…"

"I know. I think the way the school is set up is a bit too cramped within the individual houses I mean."

"There should be areas set up for studying in a quiet setting without having to go to the library all the time. It would just make it so much easier, simpler."

"Sounds good to me…"

"But?"

"But it's late and we really should get to bed. Well, at least you need to get to bed."

"Madam Pomfrey and Professor McGonagall." Hermione said more breathily than anything else. "I can't believe that I forgot, even if it was only briefly."

"Good night Hermione."

"Good night Harry. You know you really should get to bed too. You may not have any appointments tomorrow but for should the Minister decide to show up tomorrow a good night sleep will have done you a tremendous amount of good."

"You have a good point with that Hermione. Okay, I'll see in the morning then."

"See you in the morning."

Hermione and Harry headed off to their rooms to get ready for bed and then hitting the sack. After dressing for bed but before either had actually climbed into bed they could faintly hear a muffled argument. Hearing this drew them out of their rooms. They looked at each other mirroring the other's expressions of curiosity, confusion and annoyance. It was late and whoever it was should have had more respect for the school and the students that currently were residing in the school. Both shrugged and they turned around to go back into their rooms when a soft pounding on their door stopped them.

"You have got to joking." Hermione said agitatedly.

"This had better be for a good reason or an emergency." Harry muttered under his breath as he walked to the door. He was going to yell and quite rudely at whoever the hell it was disturbing them at such a late hour especially considering why they were even in a separate area. When Harry yanked the door open he did not yell rudely, hell he didn't yell at all at seeing who was on the other side of the door. Finding the Minister on the other side of the door had Harry seething and his blood began to boil.

"Minister." Hermione said surprised.

"Um, excuse me Minister..."

"Mr. Potter I suggest you watch your tongue."

"What?"

"Also your tone of voice."

"Look it's rather late and you are the one barging in. Hermione and I were about to retire for the night. Hermione has two appointments tomorrow one in the morning after breakfast…"

"Mr. Potter I am full aware of Miss. Granger's appointments tomorrow. I do not need you to tell me that."

"Then why are you here? I mean right here, right now. You know of Hermione's appointments and I am sure you are well aware of what time it is, sir. I'm tired and I know Hermione is as well and we would appreciate it if you left and arranged a meeting with her or us for in the afternoon."

"I bloody know what time it is and I will talk with the both of you now. You of all people will not tell me when it would be good a time for a talk or meeting. Now is a good time for me."

"Um…Minister, you are aware of what I have been through, right?"

"Of course I am aware Miss. Granger. I am not an idiot."

"Then why are you so adamant about talking now instead of at a decent hour when no one has something scheduled for in the morning after breakfast? You would willingly interfere with someone's recovery just because the time is good for you?" Hermione asked in a huff. "That's real smart." Hermione added under her breath quietly enough that the Minister did not hear her.

Harry heard Hermione's last remark and chuckled softly to himself.

"Sit down." The Minister ordered ignoring Hermione's questions.

"I'll stand thank you." Harry and Hermione said together and did not budge from their standing positions.

"Minister would you listen to me!" Madam Pomfrey nearly screeched. "It is well past curfew. Miss. Granger and Mr. Potter need their rest. It may be a good time for you but to hell with that. Both students are currently under my care and their welfare is most important. You are jeopardizing their health." Madam Pomfrey spat out in a rush. Her face was flushed due to frustration and fury.

"Tell me Madam Pomfrey why I was not informed of any of this right away, when it happened? And not just the…injury…Mr. Potter sustained in a class but Miss. Granger's condition."

"We handled it just fine Minister! If you do not believe that Mr. Potter sustained an injury in a class then I suggest you inquire with the students that were also present at the time as well as the Professor in charge of the class. Condition? What condition? And as for not informing you right away…what the hell could you have done to help? We handled it and are doing just fine." Madam Pomfrey yelled as quietly as she could.

"What the bloody hell is going on?" Professor Snape roared. "It is well after curfew and though you are not running through the halls, you are however disrupting students and teachers alike. If I must I will…" Severus trailed off as he reached the added housing area for Mr. Potter and Miss. Granger. "Minister." Severus finished, shock plainly evident on his face.

"Good evening Severus."

"I do believe that evening has passed. It is nearly eleven at night, what could possibly be so urgent that it has to be dealt with right this second? There are other residence in this castle and Gryffindor House by now I am sure is awake." Severus drawled.

"It is rather urgent, Severus and has to be dealt with now. That is all you need to know, now if you'll excuse me I have an urgent matter to take care of."

"Poppy, go get Albus and Minerva." Severus said quietly through gritted teeth once the Minister returned his attention to the two students.

Poppy nodded and quickly set off to get Minerva and Albus. Poppy arrived outside of Minerva's private quarter's door out of breath. Poppy knocked on the door with one hand while her other was on her chest over her heart. It wasn't long that the door opened to reveal a rather annoyed Minerva.

"Poppy what the devil…"

"The Minister has arrived and will not listen to me. He insists on talking to Mr. Potter and Miss. Granger now. When I left it was starting to get ugly. Severus is still there. I'll go get Albus now and we will meet you there." Poppy said as quickly and briefly as she could while giving enough information.

"Thank you Poppy." Minerva said as she transfigured her night clothes into something more appropriate. "Come in. After I floo to the living quarters get Albus. It will be much quicker to use the floo." Minerva said, her tone light but giving the feeling that she was ready to fight with any means.

Poppy agreed and entered Minerva's quarters.

Minerva tossed in some floo powder into her fireplace, the flame inside turned green. She then stated her destination as she stepped inside but nothing happened. She remained standing in her fireplace.

"Poppy…" Minerva said worried.

"The only possibility is that something has happened that has resulted in the fireplace to blocked, the floo connection will not activate." Poppy said softly.

Minerva quickly stepped out, grabbed another handful of floo powder and grabbed the school nurse before stepping back in. As Minerva tossed the floo powder she firmly, stated 'the Headmasters' quarters'. Minerva and Poppy stumbled out of the fireplace and both started calling for the Headmaster.

"What has happened to result in the both of you…"

"Albus, Cornelius is here and despite the late hour and Poppy doing her best to get him to see reason he has refused and is right now in the quarters of Miss. Granger and Mr. Potter. I was going to floo over and assist Severus in any way that I could…obviously I was unable to do so…"

"Say no more." Dumbledore said as kindly as he could. He was quite angry.

With a swish, flick and a wave of his wand the wards placed to prevent apparition inside the castle were lifted. Albus, Poppy and Minerva instantly apparated to the hallway a very short distance away from the entrance to the quarters that resided just around the corner from Gryffindor House.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

"Now, how did you acquire this…book…you glanced through to 'help' Mr. Potter?"

"I retrieved it from a book shelf." Hermione said condescendingly.

"For starters Miss. Granger you will give me the respect that I deserve. Now tell me where you acquired this book, the author and title of the book."

"Considering the time Minister…I am giving you the respect that you deserve. I retrieved the book from a book shelf. I am not sure of the title as the book did not have one and I believe that the author was Merlin himself or someone that knew him very well. I do remember that the book is really old." Hermione said unnerved.

The Minister gave Hermione a stern but warning look and his face was a purple color. He just stood there, pointing a finger at the witch.

Severus on the other hand was blatantly smirking. He managed to keep his control on the laughter that was threatening to escape. Severus also had to admire the witch for her attitude and how she spoke to the Minister. No one had ever really had the…guts to talk to the wizard that way. At least no one aside from Albus Dumbledore.

"Miss. Granger." Fudge said nearly bellowing out once he found his voice again. "I do not appreciate your tone of voice and how you speak to an elder. I have had enough of your cheek. Tell me where you acquired the blasted book. I am not daft. Providing you gave me an honest description of the book, no such book has ever been in Hogwarts library."

Harry briefly began to choke but then fell over laughing nearly in hysterics.

Hermione chuckled and then said, "Minister, I never said anything about a library or Hogwarts. I only said 'a book shelf'. Are you sure you can still claim not being daft?"

"Miss. Granger." Severus growled with a scowl or at least the best he could muster as he was desperately trying not laugh himself. "that will be one hundred points." Severus continued, in his head he thought 'to be awarded.' "I'll make it two hundred if you keep talking as you have been." Severus concluded with a slight lessoned growl.

Hermione at first blanched and paled dramatically. As she realized that the growling and scowling from the Potions Professor did not reach his eyes it was all she could do to not laugh, let alone not smile. Then it hit her, Professor Snape was not deducting the points.

"Sorry, sir. It's late and I'm really tired. I'm irritable and grumpy." Hermione said softly, almost sickeningly sweetly.

"I want that book Miss. Granger. And I want it now." Fudge demanded.

"Your problem not mine." Hermione said sarcastically.

Harry by this point had excused himself to his room in an attempt to pull it together and be able to hold a straight face. Once he felt confident that he could do it, Harry returned to the little common room.

A small chuckle of sorts escaped the Potions Master that was easily covered as a cough. At least that is what the Minister believed to have happened due to the continued blatant disrespect from the young witch.

Professor Snape softly awarded the gutsy Gryffindor with more points.

"GIVE ME THE BLOODY BOOK!" Fudge yelled, his jowls flapping and spit literally flying out of his mouth.

"What for?" Harry spat at the Minister.

"None of…"

"Do not tell me that it is none of my business, Minister." Harry growled.

"You know Minister, Mr. Potter's question is a good one. If I were you, I'd answer the question. These days it will be the only way to get you closer to obtaining what you want." Severus drawled.

"Minister, as you can see I do not have the book in my possession so I cannot hand it over. Even if I did have the book I doubt that I would just hand it over as it is not my book, meaning that I do not own the book in question." Hermione said a bit too calmly and this worried Harry enough that he paid more attention to Hermione though he would hear everything that would and could be said.

"It is more obvious to me than ever." Fudge said with a confident smile on his face.

"What is more obvious to you?" Severus inquired with a hint of hesitancy as he was pretty sure that the Minister had already made up his mind about the book and just now found and opening to try and confirm what he thinks.

"Obviously the book is filled with Dark magic." The Minister replied with a smug and cocky expression on his face.

"What? You're joking right? I mean you cannot be serious, Minister." Hermione blurted out in an angry rush.

"Oh, I am quite certain that is Miss. Granger."

"Rubbish! There was and is nothing dark about this book Minister." Hermione insisted.

"Nothing dark you say? If this book is not dark then why were you so drained? Why did your magic become exhausted and severely exhausted at that, Miss. Granger?"

"I am only a fourth year, sir. The magic contained in the book is old magic. The magic is strong and I have to say quite advanced."

"That, Miss. Granger just proves that it is filled with dark magic. Besides your attitude all this time…the magic has altered your person. Nothing good could cause one to become so exhausted as you were."

"Oh, please. You are just pulling it out of your…the exhaustion…the reason, the blame for that is solely on me. I made an error in judgment and did not check to see if there was anything about preparations beforehand so therefore I did not do any preparations before…"

"Likely. That book is dark and dangerous. No good will ever come out of it. The book is hereby banned and once it is handed over to me it will be destroyed." Fudge stated firmly.

"Excuse me Minister. How the bloody hell can you say that no good will come out of it? If not for that book I would still be in the infirmary unconscious. With the aid of the book Hermione was able to heal me and bring me out of the magic induced coma. The magic was just a bit more than Hermione expected. Most do not experience that level of powerful magic…"

"ENOUGH! Where is the book?"

"NOT. HERE."

"What do you mean, Miss. Granger? If it is not here, then where is it?"

"Are you deaf? I said not here. The book is not here, for most that would be clear enough. Returned to where it came from, you know where it belongs."

"Miss. Granger I realize that the magic you experienced flowing through you would have been a rush, an addiction waiting to happen…"

"You have no clue what you are talking about!" Hermione yelled as her face flushed. Her breathing was quite elevated, her heart rate had sped up at an alarming speed that is if one were watching her rate.

"Did you not hear me, Minister? If not for Hermione and the book I would not have recovered as much as I have since the accident in class. Not to mention the Tri-Wizard Tournament, my name came out of the Goblet while I was in the infirmary. Because of my name coming out of the Goblet I have no choice but to compete as it is a magical binding contract. Since I have no choice thank Merlin that Hermione remembered the book, retrieved it and used to help me. Does anyone, anywhere know what happens to a witch or wizard that tries not to follow through with a binding, magical contract whether or not the witch or wizard willingly or even knowingly were locked into such a contract? I don't and am quite thankful that I won't find out."

"You don't know what you are talking about. You are too young understand things such as this. That book is a dark artifact."

"Bull shit Minister! You're just in a foul mood over what happened in Gringotts." Hermione said furiously.

"It seems you believe his lies."

"Lies…haha…funny. If he told lies about that then there wouldn't have been a witness to give his or her proof by means of a memory and pensive."

"It is far worse than I thought. Miss. Granger should have been sent to St. Mungo's to sort her out after the ordeal."

"For physical exhaustion and severe magical exhaustion? You've gone mad. All I did was overexert myself. Madam Pomfrey did her job and I am on the mend." Hermione all but screamed out at the Minister.

"Only dark magic could make a witch or wizard react this way."

"Oh for Merlin's sake get over yourself and for once listen to someone other than yourself. The book is not dark. The book is old, really old as it predates the Founders of Hogwarts. The book is with several other items that have been passed down from generation to generation starting with Merlin. Yes, the magic clearly was powerful as stated earlier…but it was just a simple blood…" Hermione trailed of as the Minister gasped. "Give me a break Minister. Familial blood magic…

"Blood magic, all blood magic is dark magic."

"Minster would that include the old, blood magic my mother used to protect me?" Harry said in between gritted teeth as his anger was nearly to the breaking point and could fell what felt like his blood boiling at the roaring boil stage.

"That, Mr. Potter is different. Blood wards differ from Blood magic." The minster explained.

"That is a lie! Creating a Blood ward requires a lot more than you think. A Blood ward is the oldest form or branch of Blood magic." Harry said with his tone firm and voice low, deep. His face was beat red, his cheeks deep red almost black in color due to how deep of a red color. His breathing was fast, shallow at times, deep other times, his heart was pounding in his chest as his fury began to rise. He was standing his tallest and glaring at the Minster with a sneer mixed in.

"You do not know what you are talking about!" Fudge growled out, his face varying in shades of purples and reds. "Blood wards and Blood magic are as different as day and night."

"How the bloody hell would you know Minister? The type of magic I used is old magic. As mentioned previously it is so old that it predates the founders of Hogwarts. I strengthened the familial bond between family members and used that to heal Harry from the inside out and brought him out of the magical coma he had been put in. I have never felt anything so pure, so good in all my life and I doubt I will ever feel something so pure, so good again in my life time." Hermione yelled and screeched as her face became more colorful, flushed. Her breathing more sporadic than Harry's, her heart racing even more than it had been and she began to shake all over but only ever so slightly, not quite noticeable to most.

"What have you to say about blood adoptions, Minister? Blood adoptions also fall under Blood magic." Harry inquired.

"Miss. Granger…" Fudge began, ignoring Harry's question and statement.

"Minister, I would not have dared to use it normally but there was a warning and it was quite clear that when using or invoking this from of Blood magic all parties involved must be related by blood, completely be blood. As in not blood adopted, you have to have a shared blood line along the lines somewhere. Also, the warning made it clear that if one is not completely sure without any amount of doubt to not do it as it could go disastrously wrong if not be fatal for at least one individual if not all involved ."

"Miss. Granger there is no way that you could have used the Blood magic you are claiming to have used. You are a Muggle born no witch, wizard or Squib in your blood line. Trust me I, as well as, the Minister would know of this."

"No you wouldn't Minster." Hermione bellowed as her body began to shake a bit more. "The detection for new, young witches and wizards has not been preforming or detecting properly for quite some time as it has not been updated and strengthened in, I believe decades! I am not a Muggle born, I am a half blood witch!"

"Miss. Granger who has filled your head with such rubbish?" Fudge asked placatingly.

"NO ONE HAS FILLED MY HEAD WITH RUBBISH MINSITER!" Hermione screamed as her body shook, visibly and her whole being went stiff, rigid. "I SAW PROOF, UNDISPUTABLE PROOF. THE BLOOD LINES OF GRANGER AND EVANS JOINED LONG BEFORE MY MOTHER WAS BORN!" Hermione continued to scream and her body began to shake almost uncontrollably.

"Well I have heard enough. When the school nurse returns I will insisting, no I will be giving an order of transfer to St. Mungo's for you Miss. Granger." Fudge said as though it was obvious and the best thing for her.

"Not while I am alive. There is no reason for me to go there. I am just fine, there is nothing wrong with my mind! I know what I know."

"Not from what I have seen, Miss. Granger."

"And what exactly have you seen Minister? You did not see here before. Hermione is nearly completely recovered. Madam Pomfrey is just staying on the safe side with this. Since the magic that was used, that was invoked is old and rare to the point of no one alive has anything information about it." Harry said looking away from Hermione to face the Minister.

"I have had enough of this. Professor Snape would you please detain Mr. Potter and Miss. Granger and ready her for transportation to St. Mungo's?"

"I will not." Severus said gravely. "Minster, you have no clue as to what Miss. Granger has gone through nor have you seen how she has improved. Personally, I feel that Miss. Granger is ready and able to return to classes."

"Professor…" fudge growled.

"Mr. Potter…your cousin…" Snape said with a hint of worry and concern in his voice and his face slightly paled more than it normal appeared.

Harry snapped his neck back towards Hermione. His face fell and paled. His heart rate spiked as his breathing became elevated.

Hermione was trembling so much she looked as though she was having what Muggles call convolutions or a seizure. Her normal coloring had returned to normal. Her hands were in fists slightly away from her body but at her sides. Also, her hands were glowing a soft but bright white. Magic was flaring in small golden sparks emitting from Hermione's hands. As the seconds passed and the Minister continued to insist that Hermione would do better in St. Mungo's an should have been there all along, the small golden sparks began to grow and flaring faster.

"MINISTER, SHUT UP! STOP TALKING ABOUT SENDING HER TO ST. MUNGO'S. IT IS NOT HELPING ANYTHING NOR WILL I HELP ANYTHING!" Harry screamed, getting the Minister's attention.

"You do not know what she needs, Mr. Potter. It will help…"

"You are not helping the situation or anything. Shut up and get out!"

"Mr. Potter you will not tell me what to do…"

"Open your damn eyes Minister and look at her! Raw, uncontrolled magic is flaring and bursting out. The best thing right now is for you to leave as your presence and bullshit talk about St. Mungo's is not helping." Harry said loudly, firmly and through gritted teeth.

Fudge did glance over at the witch. In the next second he stepped back a bit, his face pale, his jowls quivering and mouth flapping open and shut like a fish. After several seconds, Fudge stepped forward and continued to close the space in between himself and Hermione. Fudge then reached into his robes and pulled out his wand. As he started to point his wand in Hermione's direction Harry suddenly appeared in between the Minster and Hermione.

"Mr. Potter, I do not know how you did that. After Miss. Granger is in an appropriate place to sort her out what you just did will be dealt with. Now, get out of the way."

"No. I will not get out of the way."

"Mr. Potter…"

"You do not know what you are about to encounter. The blood, the magic that ran through the blood of Morgan le Fay runs through Hermione. Whatever you have in mind will not react in the positive with what is happening. Not only is her magic returning but the full force of it and the strength of it is…"

"Potter…" Snape roared.

Harry quickly looked over his shoulder, his eyes bulged and he gasped. There was no time to summon his wand, not that his wand would have been necessary. In the next few, very few, seconds Harry took a few steps back from the Minister, standing so that he faced the fireplace with his left side facing Hermione and his right to the Minister. He raised his arms until they were level with his shoulders and his palms facing out and his fingers pointing up.

As the Minster started to walk towards Harry, Snape stepped further into the room in an attempt to stop the Minister from making a huge catastrophic mistake. This was not necessary as magic flew from Harry's hands and body. A shield flew up in between Harry and the Minster resulting in the Minster flying backwards, into Snape and on to the floor in the hallway outside of the door to the living quarters.

Snape roughly shoved the Minster off and away from him, stood up and brushed himself off. The Minster remained on the floor in the hallway on his back dumbfounded staring through the door.

A loud crack echoed off the walls of the hallway announcing the arrival of Albus, Poppy and Minerva. Albus quickly replaced the wards preventing apparition within the walls of the castle. The three quickly made their way over to where Severus was standing. Albus was quite worried as it was obvious that Severus was unable to gain entrance to the room.

One they reached where Severus stood barely avoiding the Minister who was still on the floor.

Albus looked towards the door and saw the situations within the room.

"Merlin!" Albus mumbled.