I certainly have no rights to Harry Potter, but this won't stop me writing this story. However, you probably already know this. As it is my specialty, and as in my other big stories, this shows how things go if something went different right at the beginning. Please note that I'm not a fan of bashing and also don't expect the two main pairings to differ from canon. However, the path to them certainly will be quite different. I also want to try and subvert certain plots and things that became common in the fandom over the years.
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Chapter 69: Life as a NEWT
The first day of classes had arrived and the Six were walking to the breakfast table after having swung by the administrative office first due to them now knowing of Percy's habit of already being available that early on the first day in order to give out the schedules without causing chaos. They had gotten their schedules and were now talking about them.
"Man, talk about a double whammy today. Double Potions and double Defense. That's a lot of Snape for one day, I wonder if we can withstand his intensity?" Ron wondered, since he after all had both subjects.
"I wish I could share the pain with you, but since I failed Potions, I can't help you there. That is too bad," Luna said, part of her being relieved that Neville had failed his Potions exam as well.
"Not that that is unusual. All of us after all have given up three subjects either by choice or failing, though only History is the one none of us are doing anymore," Harry remarked.
They had quickly agreed that giving up three subjects - and the failed subjects counted to that - they would have enough time for the workload in the remaining subjects. Even Hermione has conceded that she had to set priorities in order to have enough time available and with a heavy heart had decided to axe three subjects from her course list as well. After all, she could still apply to the NEWT-exams for the subjects she had dropped.
"Yep, History has bitten the dust for all of us and good riddance. Reading it in a book is more interesting then listening to essentially the same thing over and over again." Ron saw the approving look Hermione gave him when he spoke positively of books. "For my part, I'm not sad about failing Astronomy and I honestly can live without Herbology. Eh, no offense, Neville."
"Nah, not everyone is made for working with plants. Thankfully, I didn't have to select. Failed History, Potions and Transfiguration, and that's it," Neville explained the subjects he was no longer following. "Gran was sad about the last one, but Dad told her just because he was good at it doesn't mean I have to be as well. Sometimes he has to remind her I'm not a copy of him."
"Since I failed History and Potions like Neville, I had to decide what else to give up. I picked Transfiguration, since my interests lie elsewhere," Luna explained, though her friends knew that Neville failing that subject played heavily into her decision.
"History and Astronomy, like the majority of us," Ginny explained. "And the third one was not easy, but in the end I bailed out of Arithmancy. I managed my E there only by the skin of my teeth and don't want to tempt fate."
"I'm still sad you think so," Hermione added. To her, Arithmancy was a dream come true - a highly interesting subject that was challenging her intellect. Though she did understand why not everyone would love it.
Harry shrugged when the attention was on him while they sat down at the Gryffindor table. "Besides the two usual suspects, I no longer want Herbology. As interesting as it is, the plants are getting too weird for my taste."
That left Hermione and she sighed. "I had to chose. History I can learn better from a book, and as nice as the planetarium is, I can't see myself getting much out of Astronomy. And like Harry I gladly drop Herbology. Nothing against Neville and Luna, but I stay with my observation from years ago, that Herbology has become like Little Shop of Horrors."
"It can't be that bad for people that are not me, can it?" Neville wondered.
"I remind you of the Mandrakes." Seeing him fall silent, Hermione knew she had made her point.
Ginny meanwhile looked around the table. "Still need to get used to no longer seeing many familiar faces at the table. Fred, George, Angelina and Alicia have all graduated. Hammers it home that in less than two years we also will be done with school."
"Time seems to have flown by and we are now the senior students. That's an interesting feeling," Luna observed while loading her plate with breakfast.
"We as the senior students..." Harry looked at his Prefect badge. "You know, that all of a sudden makes me feel the weight of this badge."
"Hey, guys!" That was Seamus joining them at the table. "Eh, you have seen our schedule? Talk about bad luck for you."
"You mean you failed Potions and thus don't have Professor Snape that much today?" Luna asked him, having already deduced the answer from his behavior.
"Failed it miserably, couldn't concentrate while always being under observation. Dean made fun of me for days for getting a case of the nerves." Seamus didn't seem too broken over it, however.
"I actually got an E in Potions, but decided not to take it," said Lavender while sitting down, looking at her schedule. "Professor Snape is already intense enough in Defense, no chance I also want him in Potions. I'm happy enough having an OWL in it. Would have continued with Slughorn, but not with Snape."
"It appears that no longer having Slughorn tempers some enthusiasm for the subject," Ron remarked dryly before digging into his breakfast.
Discussion at the table then quickly circled around who was having which subjects.
Over at the Slytherin table meanwhile the atmosphere was quite different from past years, now that all the nasty elements had been ejected fromt the House. Everyone was much more relaxed, though serious conversations still took place.
"It's downright peaceful, now that Malfoy and his two shaved gorillas are out of the dorms. I no longer have to be alert all the time," Dudley said, looking to where Malfoy and Parkinson sat beside the faculty table while trying hard to ignore everyone else.
"It's the same over on the girls' side. I know Tracey is relieved we no longer have to endure Parkinson's presence," Millicent agreed, taking a quick look to Tracey, who currently was busy with shoveling some bacon onto her plate.
"Rumors however are going wild as to why those two are still in the school. I mean... they openly said they would be glad to make their exit, and now they are here," Daphne wondered. It was a question many in Slytherin wondered about ever since learning those two were still attending.
"They are not here because they want to be. They are here because they were told to do so," Blaise Zabini said dryly while watching Draco and Pansy carefully.
Dudley raised an eyebrow. "By who, their parents? Nah... Eh, you think those two got tangled in something they shouldn't have done?"
Zabini snorted, which went counter to his usually calm personality. "Say it aloud, considering their parents, those two have jumped onto the Death Eater cause and Voldemort ordered them to stay here. No idea what he wants to accomplish with that, especially since basically everyone in Slytherin - if not the whole school - has already deduced that as well."
"Yes, with the teachers constantly observing them, what could those two even pull? They are utterly impotent," Millicent added, scratching her head while trying to understand what use this could be. "The whole thing makes no sense."
Theodore Nott looked darkly to Draco and Pansy. "Looking at them being used as pawns, I won't set one foot outside of this school until I've turned seventeen. My old man tried really hard over the summer to get me alone; no doubt to force me into Voldemort's service. Once I'm an adult, I send him a letter telling him to go to hell."
"I'm still amazed that he's allowed to move freely, even though everyone knows that he's a terrorist and murderer," Daphne said, knowing of the past of Nott Sr. and how he had escaped prison with the Imperius-defense.
"He used a lot of money. He also is good at hiding what he's doing and despite everyone knowing, it's difficult to nail him... If he's seen anyway, since he's made himself really scarce ever since Fudge got thrown out of office," Nott explained why his father still was walking free.
"Quite the disgrace," Millicent spat, hating how despite everyone knowing those bastards were as guilty as they could be, they were still walking free.
"Wouldn't I know it?" Zabini commented dryly. "It's well known that my mother murdered all her husbands, and yet she still is free. For my part, I'll do the same as Theo and tell her to get lost as soon as I hit adulthood. I know she's planning to marry me off to some rich airhead so she can get her claws onto the money."
"She really sees you as little more than an investment, eh?" Dudley asked.
"The only reason she got pregnant with me was to use me. I remember her bemoaning how it ruined her beauty. Vain old hag..." It seemed Zabini had already closed that chapter of his life, only waiting for his birthday now.
...later that day, upper-year Potions lab...
Waiting in the Potions classroom, the students looked around. This potions lab was different than the one Slughorn was teaching in. Everything was darker and unlike Slughorn, Snape had some really bizarre and even disgusting things preserved in big glass bottles. It mirrored how he had decorated his Defense classroom, so perhaps those were the results of badly made potions?
The students also saw another truth of NEWT classes, namely that by now enough students had left each subject that everyone got the same schedule in this year, meaning that students from all for Houses now shared the same classes. That obviously made it easier for the teachers to schedule and only was logical , since otherwise classes could get too small after students dropping out.
"Just look at them..." Ron whispered.
His friends knew what Ron meant; Malfoy and Parkinson standing at a separate table near the corner next to the door - a corner that Snape could keep an eye on the entire time. Both of them didn't look too thrilled at those arrangements, either. Their minder had only just left, meaning that Professor Snape was about to arrive.
"We can dream of them having a potions accident," Padma Patil from Ravenclaw whispered, making no secret of her feelings on the matter.
"Normally I wouldn't wish that on someone..." Hermione left unsaid that she clearly would make an exception for those two. Years of hurt wouldn't vanish anytime soon.
"You think Professor Snape will be the same as in Defense?" Millicent wondered.
Justin Finch-Fletchley from Hufflepuff snorted. "Are you joking? If anything, he'll be more anal about everything due to the many things that can go wrong with potions."
Everyone held their breath when the door opened and Professor Snape entered. Up until this point they've had Potions with Professor Slughorn, but after having had Snape last year in Defense they had a good idea what to expect from him. However, Potions was a different beast, so they wondered how his high standards would apply to this subject.
Snape at that moment addressed the class.
"Ah yes, our hopefuls who have survived the OWL-exams to my standards. Professor Slughorn runs things a certain way, and while I don't agree with him on everything, he should have prepared you properly. However, from now on things will only become more difficult and if you think that slavishly following a recipe in the book down to the last movement is all there is to Potions, then get out of my potions lab right now."
That was a good indicator of how things would go and some students swallowed hard. Hermione for her part silently thanked Professor Slughorn for warning her that just following the instructions would not cut it anymore.
"Professor Slughorn by this point should have made you internalize all the rules and intricacies of potion brewing, so I hopefully don't have to waste my time having to teach you things you by now should have known for years." Snape then gave them a look that promised severe consequences for the first student he would catch having forgotten any of those essentials.
Snape then gave them a very serious look. "Like I have already impressed on you in Defense Against the Dark Arts, Potions also are an art that tolerates no 'good enough'. An improperly brewed potion can instead of having beneficial properties very well kill a patient in a matter of seconds."
Yep, just like in Defense. He has really high standards and no tolerance for slacking of any kind, Harry thought, comparing Snape to a drill sergeant.
"Do not expect me to hold your hand, either," Snape then added, before pointing his wand at the blackboard, causing several instructions to appear. "And to impress on you the importance of what I have told you, we will start with something comparatively easy, the Wound-Cleaning Potion, which nonetheless can kill if improperly brewed."
Snape saw some students pale a little, knowing he had gotten his point across. "I only give you the bare minimum instructions, you have to work actively towards creating it. Only ask questions if you think you have discovered a more optimal way of accomplishing the task or want more information on the potion than the book can give."
That said, students quickly consulted their books before they started the process of creating the potion.
"Man, thanks for warning me. Mentioning to me about Professor Slughorn telling you about us having to discern better ways saves me from lots of trouble. Otherwise that would have caught me unaware," Dudley admitted to Harry.
Both of them were working together since Professor Snape seemingly enjoyed mixing the whole group to avoid the usual pairings from forming. That also was why Ginny was working together with Daphne and Hermione with Millicent, while Ron had gotten Padma of all people. Of course the infamous duo of Draco and Pansy was an exception to that rule and Snape kept an eye on them while they worked silently.
"It would have been a dick move to not tell you," Harry admitted, feeling that was something Malfoy would have done.
"In a way this all feels like a relief. With all the school work, we can forget for some time what's going on outside of the school," Dudley admitted while sorting the ingredients. "I know this is only temporary, but it's still nice to ignore all those things for a moment."
Harry sighed. "I honestly wish I could follow your example, but with a psychotic dark lord wanting my head, that's no option for me."
Harry truly has it the worst, Dudley thought, knowing no one would want to switch places with his cousin.
Brewing then proceeded for some time, Snape on occasion actually answering questions from students, nodding when he heard an intelligent question before giving an answer, or scolding them when hearing something that should have been obvious (at least to his standards).
Over at one table Padma was about to add one ingredient, but Ron stopped her. "Wait... put in the other one first."
"Why? What would be the difference?" Padma wondered.
"I remembered that this one dissolves faster. Put in the other one first, and it mixes at the same time." Ron honestly was a bit surprised he remembered that, but chalked it up to Hermione's patient explanations.
She did so and indeed the color of the potion became much more what was to be expected.
"How did you know? I had not caught on that, despite us Ravenclaws revising extensively," Padma wondered.
Ron looked to where Hermione was busy with brewing. "After Slughorn told us about what to expect this year, Hermione took it upon herself to get as many basic facts about ingredients that could be useful and made us learn that."
However, they had not noticed Snape approach and take a look. "Ah yes, there is more in your head than just Quidditch, Weasley," Snape remarked after observing the color. "Keep that up and you can prove not all Quidditch players are meatheads."
"What was that about?" Padma wondered after Snape had moved on.
Ron had a feeling Snape's old bitterness over Harry's father, famous at school for playing Quidditch, was shining through. However, he wouldn't say so. "I guess Professor Snape is not a fan of Quidditch."
Thankfully for everyone involved, no mishaps happened, meaning they would not have to endure an annoyed Snape during Defense later the day.
o
Snape's Defense classroom had not changed from last year, so there was no surprise there. Snape himself also was no surprise.
"You already know my standards and what I expect of you in this subject, so I won't waste any of my and your time with a repeat. Should you have forgotten, then I will ensure you won't do so for a second time," Snape told the students, giving them a look that conveyed that they wouldn't want to incur his displeasure.
Seeing that the students got that, Snape moved on. "In light of the growing hostilities shaking up Magical Britain, defending yourselves against the Dark Arts is now more important than ever. Know your enemy and respect its power, then you have the best chance at an effective defense against the Dark Arts."
Snape waited for a moment, seemingly enjoying the effect of his words.
"Now then... I know that last year had been highly irregular and our lesson plan had been disrupted by... outside forces." Snape made no secret of how much he loathed Umbridge. "In a surprising twist, which I would have thought of as impossible, students actually managed to save your year from utterly falling behind."
Everyone knew that Snape meant the Defenders of Hogwarts with that. Even though the need for the group no longer existed, it by now had morphed into an informal Defense group, whose members had decided to meet from time to time in order to test their mettle outside of the Dueling Club. While it seemed impossible, Snape had been satisfied with the results, though he hadn't lost one word on everyone being able to use the Patronus spell.
Snape then pointed his wand at the blackboard and words appeared. "This year however will truly test your skill and separate the wheat from the chaf. Not only will your studies intensify, but this is the year when you learn - and you WILL learn - the art of non-verbal casting."
Snape saw several hands go up, though not Harry's, and he knew that Harry must have read up on non-verbal casting after the scene in Umbridge's office and his short explanation. He selected a boy from Hufflepuff. "Yes?"
"Professor, Sir, is it possible to cast all spells non-verbally with enough skill, or are there limits?" the student asked.
"Ah yes, an actually good question." Snape seemed relieved that his time wasn't wasted. "And the answer is, that there are limits. The more powerful the spell, the more difficult it is to cast non-verbally. Past a certain level, it is impossible, regardless of skill. Take the Unforgivables for an example. All three of them are impossible to use non-verbally, even though it is possible to reduce the incantation to a whisper."
The Six flinched at that reminder. They had all witnessed first-hand how the Death Eaters could calmly say the incantation of the Unforgivables, which made their usage even more chilling.
"Casting spells non-verbally is a complicated art and it would be a miracle if any of you were to learn it quickly. Nor is it possible to learn by just being a bookworm," Snape then added.
Everyone knew that was Snape essentially telling them that he still didn't think of them as that great, but was ready to be shown otherwise. Still, his personality - someone not exactly nice - was shining through. The second part seemed to be aimed at the Ravenclaw students, but Hermione knew it primarily meant her, since Snape had criticized her still existing habit of consulting books first when trying to find answers, even when he had made it clear that the only way to improve was by practicing.
He could have been nicer about it, Hermione thought, though she knew after years in the Dueling Club that Snape didn't really know 'nice'.
"However, that is all for later. For now it is more important to..."
Snape's lesson then went on and soon enough the students were actively training the new defensive spell they were learning. Funny enough, it was the very shield spell which Harry had used in second year to save them from Lockhart and the basilisk, Portego Maxima.
Snape snorted when seeing Harry cast it perfectly. "Of course, Potter. I've read about your exploits almost four years ago. If you are that good, let's see if you are capable of helping those friends of yours."
After they had gathered, Ron whispered "Eh, why haven't you told him you taught all of us that spell after it had saved our hides two times?"
"Do I look that stupid? With Snape it's better to not say too much, and the advantage is that I later can say I managed to teach you the spell in record time," Harry said, knowing that Snape was different from the other teachers in several aspects.
"Harry, he'll notice it's impossible for you to teach us in just an hour," Hermione warned Harry.
"And? It's not like he can nail me to the cross for it or say anything publically," Harry replied.
"Don't say we didn't warn you," Ginny told her boyfriend with a sigh, feeling that Harry should have told Snape.
Needless to say, after all six of them demonstrated being able to do the spell perfectly, Snape did tell Harry and his friends to stay, and once they were alone, forced them to admit that Harry had already taught the spell to them some time ago. Snape of course was not impressed with this lie by omission and slapped Harry with a detention this day, while telling Harry's friends to get out before they would get one as well.
Cleaning used potion bottles manually was dirty work, but Harry still felt it was worth Snape's expression when seeing all his friends being able to do the spell perfectly and not being able to call him out in front of the class.
Yep, totally worth it.
...over the week...
"All six of you are early. I knew making my subject interesting, you would continue attending," Hagrid told them when they approached his cottage early, no other students being present yet.
They knew right away something was off with Hagrid. While he was trying to sound normal, it was painfully obvious that something must have happened which had caused Hagrid's mood to plummet. They felt whatever had happened, it was not healthy for him to try and be cheerful, when he clearly was not. Knowing Hagrid, that was a big warning sign.
Harry decided that being direct would be better. "Hagrid, did something happen?"
Hagrid sighed. "I knew I couldn't fool you..." Now he looked more somber. "No, I don't feel well... Remember my old friend Aragog? I told you of him."
"You mean that giant spider?" Ron looked quite nervous.
"Aye... Old age is catching up with him. It was bad enough when he went blind, but now he's gotten sick as well..." Hagrid looked devastated now. "He's slowly dying."
"Oh, Hagrid..." It was Luna who first realized how Hagrid must feel. "He is one of your oldest friends. That must be horrible for you."
"He was really calm about it, says he has lived a long and fulfilled life. Still doesn't make it any easier for me." Hagrid needed a few moments to gather himself. "He worries what will happen once he's gone, knowing that there will be horrific battles for the leadership position. Also... they are all his children. That colony is not sustainable."
They thought about it while Hagrid blew his nose. From all they knew, it mainly was Aragog who stopped the huge spiders from becoming a problem in the forest. With him gone, that would change. Hermione for her part knew a bit about the behavior of spiders and that things could get really ugly once Aragog was dead. While Hagrid had meant well, with breeding Aragog and supplying him with a mate, he in the long term had created a big problem for the forest.
"Hagrid."
Someone was approaching from the forest - a centaur. They did recognize Firenze, but he didn't look too hot. He sported several painful-looking cuts and the dried blood surrounding those cuts looked quite nasty as well. It was like Firenze had went through some kind of battle and barely managed to escape. The sight was not very reassuring.
The centaur for his part noticed the horrified looks the teenagers were giving him. "It looks worse than it is, nothing that can't heal in due time."
"Firenze, what happened?!" Hagrid gasped when seeing the centaur in such a condition.
"The schism has started to turn bloody and both factions in the herd are more set against each other than ever before. Your visit to your spider friends yesterday was a welcome pretext for the other side to escalate further. No one should enter the forest now... in the interest of your own health," Firenze warned.
"Oh-uh..." Ginny had a feeling that this was a situation that wouldn't end well. "That's bad, right?"
Firenze appeared calm, but small signs showed how much the situation was upsetting him. "Yes, very bad. Open warfare by now is only a matter of time."
Hagrid looked unsettled as well. "Is that why...?"
"They took offense at me wanting to warn you of these developments and called me a shame to my kind. Their actions have only made things worse." Firenze gave all of them a serious look. "It is for your own safety that you stay out of the forest. The other side feels it is within their rights to harm anyone they see as an intruder."
"But I..:" Hargid tried to say.
Frirenze's expression softened. "I know, you want to be by your friend in his final moments. Still, even for you entering the forest will be a big risk now."
Watching Firenze walk back into the forest, they tried to understand. "I honestly don't get it. Were there even signs this could happen?"
"They were there... small stuff I generally didn't take seriously," Hagrid admitted. "While centaurs are fatalistic and believe in the fate as told by the stars as an absolute, we thought the age line keeping students out would pacify them."
"But there were deeper-seated issues at work, right?" Hermione asked.
Hagrid looked to where Firenze had vanished into the forest. "Despite what it appeared like, their society was changing. That caused... tensions. Grawp was only the issue that caused the spark to ignite everything."
Hearing that made them worry would could happen inside that forest. They also were reminded of the situation in Magical Britain with one side using violence to cling on power. From what they did know, it seemed that a similar conflict had developed in centaur society, only that one had exploded quite quickly after appearing calm for many years.
They wondered if that was a bad omen.
o
"I like your enthusiasm for my subject, Miss Weasley, but perhaps you should ensure that the end result is not striped like a zebra," McGonagall told Ginny, actually looking a bit amused while undoing the highly strange coloration.
"Sorry, Professor. It's only that you announced that after this we would also start doing non-verbal transfigurations," Ginny admitted, having wanted to show off while she could.
"And Professors Snape and Flitwick have told you the same, that non-verbal casting will be a big part this year in their subjects as well." It seemed McGonagall had experience with the issues that caused. "It's a stumbling block for many students, but no need to be nervous."
"Eh, Professor? I've heard that non-verbal is really difficult," Ron asked from the next table, also not feeling confident about his ability in doing so.
"Let me put it this way. Even George and Fred Weasley managed it in given time, and considering their work ethos before Mr. Black managed to thankfully set them straight, that should tell you something," McGonagall said, before turning her attention to a different student.
If even they managed to do so during their phase when they were less concerned about their grades, it should be possible. That was what Ron took from that.
Harry meanwhile leaned over to Ginny. "Why zebra stripes?" he asked her.
"I honestly was thinking of a zebra when it happened. It just came to my mind out of nowhere," Ginny admitted. She was taking it as a lesson to not get distracted during casting.
o
The planetarium inside the Astronomy Tower truly was a marvel - and a relief since it meant classes no longer had to be held outside at night and also no longer were at the mercy of the weather. That to the joy of Professor Sinistra had made her subject quite a bit more popular than it used to be in years past, when students had had not been pleased by the lack of sleep the following day or having to stand in bad weather.
That also had resulted in a bigger NEWT class, since fewer students opted out of it. Though of course many still found the whole thing not useful to their future plans and thus still opted out - just fewer than in the past. Thus it had come as a not-so-welcome surprise to Professor Sinistra that Draco Malfoy and Pansy Parkinson had elected to continue with her subject.
Why my subject of all things? While they both passed with an E, they made no secret they found stargazing boring and complained it has no useful applications, Sinistra thought while looking to where the two students in question were sitting near the far wall.
Still wondering about it, she walked to the podium at the front, from where she could control the planetarium and start today's lesson.
Neville also gave those two a look. "Why this subject of all things? They always bellyached that it's boring and has no practical use," he whispered to Luna while the lights died down.
"It is more difficult to observe them in this class," Luna said, eyes narrowing a bit behind her glasses. "The darkness allows them to do things they can't do in a normal classroom."
"But what could they do at all? They are under constant watch," Neville wondered while checking one last time that his telescope was set correctly.
"We should not underestimate them. We did so before and paid the price for it," Luna reminded her boyfriend.
Draco and Pansy for their part already after a few days felt highly uncomfortable with the arrangements.
While they at first had waved off their isolation from everyone else - even when being surrounded by people they were alone - as a relief that they finally no longer had to deal with 'the rabble', they now realized it was not that great. Also, that some or another adult was constantly around them not only was making their mission difficult, it also was having an effect on them really wanting to have a place just for the two of them.
They were telling themselves that it was worth pleasing the Dark Lord, but that still didn't make it any more pleasant.
...late afternoon of September 6th...
It was Friday after lessons when the Six sat down beneath some trees next to the owlery tower, waiting for the others to arrive.
"What a week. I thought lessons were hard last year, but this year is promising to be even more difficult. Kind of scary that we have to learn about silent casting," Ron remarked, thinking of the whole thing as quite difficult since it went against how he had done magic up until this point.
"It's called non-verbal casting, but I understand where you are coming from. That's not something you can learn in a book. You have to train yourself to only think of the invocation," Hermione said, not looking forward to that, since it was all about skill, not knowledge.
"Oh, sorry we are a bit late." That was Dudley, with Millicent and Daphne right behind him. "I hope the teachers won't give you grief that you use your Patronus as a quick way to exchange messages. Everyone had been a bit surprised when a glowing fox appeared through the wall."
"Funny enough, I learned the spell for sending messages, and there is no rule forbidding me from doing so," Harry said, feeling he had found a nice loophole to exploit. "But come, sit down. We've just started talking about our week."
To be honest, none of them would have imagined to become friends with three Syltherins when they had started Hogwarts, with the addition of Harry back then not having been on good terms with his cousin. Things however had changed, and Slytherin had changed as well, now that all of the unpleasant elements had left it. Showed how full of surprises life was.
"Well, lessons are certainly promising to be quite difficult," Daphne remarked while sitting down in the grass. "Astroria at first didn't want to believe me about the things that are part of our lesson plan this year. She even questioned if I heard correctly when I explained non-verbal casting."
"Looks like that whole non-verbal thing is the big elephant in the room. I know for sure I'll have huge difficulties with it." Neville didn't look forward to those lessons.
"Oh, maybe I should help you? I was always fascinated with casting non-verbally. I imagine it was invented for wizards and witches who are mute. It is sad they can never learn the really powerful spells, since those have to be spoken," Luna thought aloud.
"Any help would be welcome, but yours especially," Neville told her, everyone getting what that was about.
The others felt it was a strange way of flirting, but as long as it was working for them...
"As difficult as lessons will be, I still have my hands full with Mark. Despite his earlier doubt he now is really excited to finally be able to use a real wand and has lots of questions for me," Harry said with a sigh, though everyone knew he didn't mind at all. "I want to make sure he doesn't feel like he's left on his own and without any guidance."
"I had to do the same for Astoria when she started Hogwarts. All that excitement of starting something new... Hard to believe we were like that as well when we started Hogwarts. It feels so long ago..." Daphne mused, feeling how the Daphne who had started Hogwarts had been a very different girl from her current self.
"Interesting how our perception of time can change with age," Luna thought aloud. "It does remind us to enjoy the things we have."
"I know that's all deep, but I think we were talking about our school week," Ginny reminded everyone. "I understand why Hagrid was not exactly at his best after the news about Aragog and the centaurs. But I was really floored by some of the charms Professor Flitwick wants us to learn - especially doing them non-verbally."
"You don't have to remind me," Millicent said, still looking a bit pale at the reminder. "It's even more intimidating when he demonstrated all of them with ease without saying a word. Quite a reminder of how skilled he is."
"Well, I saw both of you look astounded when Professor Burbage showed us that the space program will be in our lesson plan this year," Ron reminded Millicent and Daphne, remembering the pictures their Muggle Studies professor had shown them.
"Admit it, you find the whole thing captivating as well. I literally saw the stars in your eyes when she told us about the video presentations included in the lessons," Daphne reminded Ron.
"Yes... but still, people walking on the Moon does sound really exciting," Ron said, honestly looking forward to those lesson, despite already having read about it.
"That's nothing to Ancient Runes. We are now learning how to graft spells onto items with runes. Now, that is awesome!" Dudley said, already thinking of how many applications there would be for that.
"Oh yes. I remember Uncle Remus telling me how they created the map with runes grafted onto the parchment, said that without those it would have been impossible," Harry added excitedly, seeing the sheer potential with runes.
"Speaking of Mr. Lupin, Astoria couldn't stop telling me how happy she was to have him back to teaching them. Not to speak of his wife. It reassures me that they have good teachers for how to defend themselves," Daphne said, thinking of how excited Astoria had been when telling her that.
"Well, Mark said the same, though he might be biased due to knowing Uncle Remus from the preschool." Harry then looked thoughtful. "Quite the exciting week, though, there of course also are those two..."
Everyone knew right away what Harry was talking about.
"Urgh, did you have to mention them?" Millicent said with a grimace.
"I admit, I don't get it. What are they supposed to accomplish with that? The teachers are keeping a close eye on them to ensure nothing would happen and Voldemort has to know that," Hermione wondered, unable to find any good reason for their presence.
"To be honest, many in Slytherin wonder about that as well," Dudley admitted. "It's an open secret that the only way they return here would be by order, and many already know who would order them. It's puzzling however for the reason you stated. If he wants to insert spies or saboteurs into the school, then this is way too obvious. It makes no sense."
"Do we honestly want to imagine what goes on inside Voldemort's head?" Ron wondered, looking squicked out by the idea.
"Mate, I honestly would take any advantage against him. The sooner he's out of my life, the better," Harry reminded his friend.
"This took a dark turn real fast," Ginny said and everyone stopped, before agreeing that they shouldn't talk about such things anymore. After all, times were already depressing enough.
About half an hour later, everyone was going their ways to prepare for the weekend.
Ron and Hermione were on the way back to Gryffindor tower when Hermione asked Ron for a little detour. Ron for his part didn't ask what that could be about, and he also did not feel alarmed when Hermione led him down a quite dark corridor. However, his surprise did spark when all of a sudden she pulled him into a dark corner (quite the feat considering he was quite a bit bigger than her) and before he could get a word in pressed against him and shoved her tongue into his mouth.
Hermione?! That thought went through Ron's head before he gave in.
It was not an innocent make-out session either. Besides the fierce tongue duel Hermione had engaged in, she was holding onto Ron while literally rubbing her whole body against his. Ron felt the predictable results of such action and guessed that Hermione was getting aroused by this as well.
It took several minutes, but suddenly Hermione shivered a little, then let go of his mouth a let out a long sigh. "God, I needed this..." She then blushed a little. "Ron... Please don't think I..."
"No, I wouldn't. That felt great, but what brought this on?" he wondered while still holding her close, correctly guessing she'd gotten a small orgasm from this and now was embarrassed about that fact.
"I felt like a pressure cooker ready to explode. It was like my body was screaming at me; wondering what I am waiting for." There was no doubt Hermione was embarrassed by her impulsive actions. "God, Ron, I outright molested you! Since when have I become an estrogen balloon ready to burst?"
"I wouldn't call it molest when I eagerly participated," Ron reminded his girlfriend. "I think you now know how we guys feel at times?"
"It honestly makes me realize how much boys can control themselves." It was a kick to the teeth to the idea that girls could control themselves better, but Hermione knew now that that was bullshit. "Ehm... you really didn't mind?"
"No at all..." He then gently brushed the bushy hair aside before kissing her forehead. "It's actually exciting to anticipate when you ambush me like that again."
"Oh, Ron..." Hermione couldn't help but to giggle while at the same time feel eager as well for more of those moments. "I'm still shy about showing my affection when others are present. I don't get how Harry and Ginny can kiss in public without hesitation."
"Eh, Hermione, please don't mention my sister while we are like this, all right?" Ron asked of her.
Hermione understood that Ron honestly didn't want to think of Ginny while holding his girlfriend close, since that was awkward. Letting him hold her close, she decided to say nothing and instead enjoy this moment to the fullest.
...at the same time in London...
Unlike the closed sessions, this time a public debate was taking place inside the Ministry of Magic in London. All seats were occupied since a sharp controversy was being expected. After all, the topic was the current state of the war effort against the Death Eaters and none other than Sirius Black would also speak about his thoughts on the matter.
It was dead-sure to get heated due to the presences of several families of the more fanatical side, most prominently Narcissa Malfoy. She had not shown herself much ever since the arrest of her husband Lucius and many social circles were now avoiding her, fearing guilt by association. On the spectator ranks emotions also were heated due to everyone knowing that several of those families had to be in cahoots with Voldemort and were angry at how impotent the Ministry was in proving so.
Indeed, by now sparks had already flown and arrows shot - though thankfully not literally.
Several speakers from the families opposing the Death Eaters had already spoken and made no secret of their views, adding that they were not afraid of Voldemort's murderers. Two representatives from families everyone knew were supporting Voldemort had also spoken and opened up a can so full of lies and insincerity that security did have their hands full to prevent rioting from breaking out.
"Is she really believing all that shit she's just said?" Sirius snorted, having just listened to Narcissa Malfoy spreading lies and poison.
"Of course not. Too bad we can't prove that she's just as deep in it as her husband - the disadvantage of being on the lawful side: the other side can play dirty and you can't do anything about it," Frank lamented.
Sitting beside her husband, Alice sighed. "It's a disgrace. We know they are the enemy, but there's little we can do about it without resorting to means that would undermine what we are standing for and do long-term damage to ourselves."
Like Crouch Sr., Sirius thought, remembering the man's more extreme policies, which in the end, while seemingly effective at first, had only hurt their own side.
He then snorted. "I was mostly annoyed by her whining that her family is unjustly persecuted and observed. I'll remind her of the facts."
Frank then looked up at the magical board hanging from the ceiling, seeing new writing appear. "Then you'll have the opportunity right now, Sirius, since you are next. Let's hope this goes well."
"I hope so as well..." He was not exactly a gifted public speaker, but he hoped it would be enough.
While walking up to the podium, Sirius felt that all eyes were on him, which was little wonder. After all, he was considered the leader of a very outspoken alliance of families that opposed Voldemort. Everyone knew that made them big targets and sooner or later the Death Eaters would try to bring death to them. Sirius could feel Narcissa's angry looks trying to set him ablaze. History between them had made her despise him utterly.
"I feel quite humbled that I do get the opportunity to lay out my sight of the crisis our country has found itself in, but first I have something else to say." Sirius then looked to Narcissa. "Mrs. Malfoy, that display of you complaining about your family's lot was highly disgraceful."
Narcissa looked furious and the audience anticipated the words that would follow. They didn't have to wait for long. "Fact is that your husband was arrested and the amount of evidence against him is crushing; like that Dark Mark on his arm or the fact that said mark silences him violently when they try to make him talk. Considering the entanglements of the Malfoys in certain affairs, the Ministry is wise in keeping an eye on your activities."
Narcissa ground her teeth together when hearing the audience applauding Sirius for those words.
Fact was that ever since Lucius' arrest, the finances of the Malfoys were being closely monitored. While the goblins didn't care what their customers did with their money, the Ministry now had cause to be informed properly. Of course the Ministry was only looking at the official money, not the funds they had moved out of the spotlight and which the Dark Lord was using for his activities.
I swear, as soon as it is possible, you will end with your head on a pike. You have been a thorn in our side for way too long, she thought bitterly, years of resentment feeding this feeling.
Sirius however no longer paid her any attention. "Now then. I am a man of direct words, so I will cut right away to the meat of the matter..."
Interestingly, those who had been expecting a highly emotional Sirius Black who would use every chance to curse the Death Eaters were being disappointed. Instead, Sirius took his time to take apart all of the supposed goals of the Death Eaters, contrasting those with what they were actually doing and then the hard facts. That he was good was shown by how many were listening attentively while the usual suspects were red with anger, not wanting to hear any of it.
Sirius then finally concluded. "...thus I can say that all of the supposed goals are just a front. In reality, it's only about having all the power to erect a dictatorship - meaning that Voldemort gets all the power and his followers live in the illusion they will have some as well. Not that it will work, since everything I laid out shows that they would drive Magical Britain into complete ruin."
He gained lots of applause for that, while those on the opposite side were in outright denial about his words, telling themselves that Black had no idea what he was talking about.
Sirius held up a hand to show there was more he had to say. "I have to add that I have no ill feelings towards Minister Bones. She is trying everything she can in this situation and already got the scars to show. However, she inherited a Ministry from Fudge, which was heavily gutted, corrupted and filled with those sympathizing with the Death Eaters. That not only was because of his incompetence, but also because of him being under the constant influence of the enemy, as the arrest of Lucius Malfoy showed."
Having heard enough, Narcissa made a show of leaving, causing whispers to erupt.
Sirius looked after her. "As I said, no ill feelings towards Minister Bones. She is doing the best she can with the means left to her." He then walked back to his seat.
"Damn, I was sweating while doing that," Sirius said once he was sure the attention was elsewhere.
"Why? You did great," Alice wondered.
"Dear, you've known him for years. Sirius is no natural public speaker. The only reason it's not obvious is due to him preparing extensively each time," Frank reminded his wife.
I'll be happy once all of this is over and I can leave the politics to someone else, Sirius thought. Despite him knowing how important what he was doing was, he had never found a liking to politics.
He knew it was wishful thinking, but he wished back the days when he was just a police officer in a sleepy suburb.
...Monday, September 9th,, Little Whinging...
The man walking down Privet Drive was not causing any kind of attention that was outside of normal, and why should he? After all, he just looked like any middle-aged gentleman in a business suit. Those that walked by him however would also remark how the man seemed to have a charismatic aura, causing them to regard him with more respect.
Mr. Morden for his part shook his head while walking down the street. If not for his information being published against his will, no one would have ever guessed that Sirius Black lives in such an ordinary neighborhood.
Arriving at his destination, he rung the doorbell and didn't have to wait for long bore Diane opened the door. "Please come in... I have to say your message made us wonder what this could be about. You even gave us an excuse with the force."
"Thank you, Mrs. Black, and I wouldn't take up your valuable time if it weren't for serious matters," Mr. Morden told her while making sure his shoes weren't dirty.
Diane sighed. "These days everything is important. I honestly wish back the time when I just was a mother raising her children. They are in school right now, so they won't see anything they shouldn't. Steve and Kathleen are becoming too curious for their own good."
If Diane was to be honest, that was putting it mildly.
While her children were still too young to truly understand what was going on around them, they had recognized that something had changed. It wasn't about magic - ever since that day when Dobby had caused trouble her children had simply accepted that as a fact of life - but how the behavior of the people around them had changed. They remembered enough of the day when MI-X revealed itself and were trying to make sense of it on their own.
Granted, what their imagination was cooking up didn't have much basis in reality, but it nonetheless showed that seven-year old children were smarter than many would expect them to be. She already dreaded them telling what would have to be done come the summer of next year. That would be difficult for them.
"Ah, Mr. Morden, you really made us wonder what this could be about that you asked for us to be present," Veronica said when seeing them enter the living room. She then waited while Sirius cast a spell and a faint static hum appeared in the background. "Now no one can listen in on us. It is about MI-X matters, correct?"
"Yes, and I would not have taken your valuable time if it weren't for important matters," Mr. Morden confirmed.
"Granted, we've done small things for your agency, but it surely pales in comparison to the things you normally do. We also have no magic, so no dice there," Thomas then said, feeling indeed that their contributions were rather modest compared to the whole picture.
"Oh, don't undersell yourselves. Even the small contributions can have big effect, Mr. Evans. After all, I have to remind you that thanks to you and your wife, we were becoming aware of something magical going on on the motorway and prevented a disaster," Mr. Morden reminded him.
Thomas and Veronica both knew what he was talking about. "That only was because our protective amulets stated acting up like they did when entering a zone with magic meant to conceal something from people without magic," Veronica reminded him.
"Perhaps, but you still reported it and allowed us to remove the concealed trap which could have caused dozens of deaths. I wonder if the Death Eaters attribute that to the Ministry..." Mr. Morden mused. "However, the main matter I'm here for pertain to next year."
"Of course you are informed... After all, it would be strange if you weren't," Sirius remarked, rolling his eyes.
"In this case, it was Mr. Dumbledore himself who confirmed to us that the protection around Harry Potter will cease come midnight to his seventeenth birthday at July 31st. I can already assume that you have started planning for when that happens?" Mr. Morden asked, showing what he already knew.
Everyone else grimaced at the reminder of what would happen next year. They knew it was only the protective magic surrounding Harry that allowed them to stay in Little Whinging, since especially after Umbridge having Sirius'' information published, it was very certain that Voldemort knew where Harry lived as well. Even after Voldemort had compromised Harry's protection on a personal level, at least this - even though at a weakened level - still worked. But come Harry turning into an adult in the eyes of magic, that would be gone.
"We... are already planning for that, but it's messy. We are pretty sure Voldemort by that time will think he's powerful enough that he can make an attempt to kidnap or murder Harry when he is moved out." Diane made no effort to hide her worry. "And it's not only Harry. It's both our families... and our neighbors as well."
"Oh, you mean young Dudley Dursley and his mother?" Mr. Morden asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Of course you would know, especially after what happened last summer..." Thomas said under his breath. "So this is about helping us with that task?"
"Don't get us wrong, we would very much accept any help with getting everyone to safety." Veronica made no secret how the whole idea of having to leave their lives in Little Whinging, until the whole mess was over, was distressing her. "Eh... but I have to guess it'll have nothing to do with magic?"
Knowing that this was his cue, Mr. Morden pulled several papers out of his document case. "Right on the mark. After all, never give your enemy what they expect."
...Quidditch pitch, September 14th...
The time had come for the tryouts in the Gryffindor team.
Everyone was hoping this would be a proper distraction, since yesterday in Herbology there had been a harsh reminder of the realities of the war when Hannah Abbott got the news that her mother had been found dead with the Dark Mark set above her corpse. Poor Hannah had fainted in shock and news was that she wouldn't return to school for several weeks.
After that cold reminder what the Death Eaters were up to, there was a real need to put their thoughts onto something else.
"Will be a bit weird with Fred, George, Angelina and Alicia gone. Granted, their positions are filled from the reserves, but they had always been on the team and now that they are done with school..." Ginny though aloud while everyone had gathered on the pitch.
"It felt the same when Oliver was done, only now it's even stronger," Harry agreed, looking around.
From the original team he had started with in first year, only Katie Bell remained. Ron and Ginny after all had started in reserve and Ginny still was in reserve since they both were in the same year and position - though they both had agreed that she would take Harry's position in the second game. Long-time reserve members had now ascended to the main team, but now the reserve team had to be filled again.
"I know, makes me feel strangely old," Ron agreed with Harry, taking a look at the team. "Feels really weird. Well, we still have to fill no less than four positions in the reserve team."
"Already any plans with how to do those four-way games?" Ginny asked her brother.
"No pressure, eh?" It was obvious however, that Ron had already thought about that. "It will be quite the challenge, especially since it is a free-for-all. Can't use traditional tactics with that one."
Harry then took a look at the hopefuls that were entering the pitch Most of them were from first or second year, which was little wonder to Harry. Ron had stressed that even after their time in school was done, they should leave behind a consistent team. Recruiting from first and second year had the advantage that those players would stay together for a long time, growing into a proper unit.
"It's a bit funny. I remember my own tryouts, me being a fresh first-year student. Now watching the whole thing from the other side feels strange and indeed makes me feel strangely old. This honestly feels like setting up for the time after us," Harry observed.
"Oh, but getting older also has its advantages..." Ginny said suggestively while giving Harry a certain look.
She didn't do more than that, having noticed Ron looking uncomfortable. While her brother had nothing against her relationship with Harry, he had made it clear he didn't want to know what they both were up to behind closed doors. They also had agreed to not indulge in overt displays of affection in his presence. Ron could live with them hugging and kissing while he was present, but only if they didn't make a show of it.
Trying his best to ignore Ginny's antics, Ron pulled out his whistle. "All right, let's get this show underway."
And thus the tryouts started.
First they had to filter out those who were not truly committed to the whole thing, by now knowing the signs to look for. Thanks to the coverage about Harry, some new first-years had wanted to join just to be close to him and were sent away promptly. Then things started for real and about an hour later all positions were filled. Ron had a good feeling about this reserve team, but wanted to do some more individual training before he could make plans.
Back in the locker room, Harry was starting to take off his Quidditch uniform, having been held up by something.
"Oh, Harry?"
Hearing Ginny's voice from behind the divider that separated the male and female parts of the locker room (though the showers were not divided, having resulted in the agreement that the boys went first, since girls needed longer in the showers), Harry wondered what could have held her up. "Is something wrong, Ginny?"
"No, nothing is wrong. Just... are we alone?" Ginny asked.
Harry had a strange feeling when hearing the question, by now having stripped down to his boxers. "Yes, we are the last ones in here."
There was a small pause, before Ginny asked "How undressed are you?"
Harry blushed a little, Ginny was quite forward now. "I'm only wearing my boxers."
"Oh, that's all right." Harry heard Ginny walk around the divider, turned around... and stopped when seeing the state of undress she was in.
Like him, Ginny was reduced to wearing her underwear - which in this case meant knickers and a sports bra. Despite giving her the same coverage as her bikini, the effect was much stronger, since her underwear was not meant to be seen. Part of him guessed that his boxers had the same effect on her. Ginny's body also had changed since the last time he's seen her in so little; she had matured quite a bit.
"Uhhm, Ginny?" Despite knowing he should probably look away, he couldn't help but to look only even more.
Ginny for her part was enjoying the view as well, and while she was a bit nervous over what they were about to do, her excitement overrode that. "Harry, you like what you see?" She then made a full twirl to show off her body to Harry. "I want us to do something special."
"Ginny, don't you think... this is kind of early?" Harry asked.
"Oh, no worry, our underwear stays on. I think both of us are not ready for that, but that doesn't mean we can't get frisky and explore each other. Now come!"Taking Harry by the hand, she pulled him to the showers.
"I always thought enjoying a shower together comes later in a relationship?" Harry wondered, though he didn't protest while watching Ginny turn on the water.
"To be honest, I don't care!" Ginny said with a laugh, before pulling Harry under the gentle, warm rain and then capture his lips with her own.
Snogging while only wearing their underwear and under a warm shower was quite the experience. It was soon enough that both of them felt the effect of it, but instead of feeling embarrassed, they started to rub their lower fronts against each other, with predictable results. Ginny then took Harry's hand and gently placed it on her covered left breast.
"Make me feel good..." she whispered into his ear.
This was the first time Harry was holding's a girl's breast, and that it was Ginny's was making this even more exciting. He was careful, gentle and enjoyed every moment of it. Then suddenly Ginny shuddered a little and let out a long moan, which made it obvious what just had happened.
However, before he could pull away his hand... "Don't stop... We girls... can cum more than once."
To show she was serious her hand went low and started to caress the tent in Harry's boxers - despite her tomboyish imagine she was incredibly gentle while doing so. Realizing it was OK, Harry's unoccupied hand gently started to caress Ginny through her kickers, hoping he was doing alright. The interesting sounds Ginny made most certainly told him he was on the right track. It didn't take too long before Ginny let out a loud moan when she climaxed again, rubbing Harry hard enough that he came a moment later.
Breathing heavily, they both held onto each other. "That... was... wow..." Harry tried to put the experience into words.
"Yes... God, I don't think... I'll ever again be satisfied by doing it... on my own." It was a sign of the bliss Ginny was feeling that she wasn't ashamed to talk about herself masturbating.
"Same for me...my tomboy with her gentle hands." Harry knew releasing pressure now would be more difficult after sampling this.
They finally separated and saw that the water made their underwear quite form-fitting and partially translucent. Harry had no trouble to see the outline of Ginny's nipples and the shadow of her bush. Ginny for her part saw that the boxers were not hiding much when being soaked. By silent agreement both of them went into the shower stalls that were furthest apart before washing up, not even peeking at the others' nudity, and Harry then tactfully waited until Ginny had slipped back behind the divider.
After all, there were some barriers they were not ready to move past yet.
...Hogwarts greenhouses, September 18th...
"I honestly still wonder why they have a patch of ordinary grass in this greenhouse. It's not even magical or has any special properties, it's just grass," Neville wondered while looking at the oddity in question.
"Perhaps it's some old tradition for which the reason has long been forgotten and they just do it without wondering what purpose it once served?" Luna speculated, also not having come up with an answer to that question.
Both of them again were being busy in one of the greenhouses, and by now Professor Sprout felt they could be trusted with doing the work on their own without any kind of supervision, thus she was being busy in a different greenhouse. They had already tended to the plants and thanked all what's holy that she was not making them work in the greenhouse where she was raising a batch of Mandrakes. Luna especially didn't want to be anywhere near those plants.
"Maybe. I've often enough heard the phrase 'We've always done it that way' without it being questioned," Neville said while marking down on a scroll that all the plants had been tended to.
Luna wiped the moisture off her forehead. "It is quite warm and humid in here..."
That's an understatement... Neville thought.
The warm and humid air had meant them taking off their jackets and they still were sweating. Their white uniform shirts by now were glued to their skin by the moisture and Neville wondered why Luna had to wear a dark bra to the white shirt. Part of him felt that it had been intentional on her part, she simply was like that and was not shy about showing how how much she had matured.
Luna then put the pruning shears aside. "Neville, do you like looking at my bra through my shirt?"
He should have expected that and knew directness was the key. "Y-yes, it looks nice. But why a dark one?"
Luna actually giggled. "Isn't it obvious? A white one would hardly be visible even if my shirt gets wet."
That answered the question, this was intentional on her part. "You know, this makes it quite difficult to control myself."
Luna looked unbothered by that. "But I don't want you to control yourself." She then stepped into his personal space. "We will be all alone for at least another hour."
That was Luna. After she had overcome her shyness towards matters of the heart concerning him, she had become her usual, direct self, and he liked it that way. "You need some attention?"
"Yes, please," she told him, now standing very close.
The kiss started innocent enough but soon started to escalate when Luna held onto him, becoming a fierce battle of tongues. Luna also felt a hand on her butt, but gave no sign of protest and instead wiggled her butt a little. Neville felt the effects of the prolonged contact, a certain part of his being very happy. They had no idea how long they had made out when they finally parted, a saliva strand connecting their tongues for a little longer before it broke.
"Oh... wow..." Neville honestly had not expected it to be this intense.
Judging by Luna's heavy breathing and how red she was, she hadn't expected it, either. "This made me feel so... It's overwhelming..."
"Luna, you think we should write a note that we finished early and then take a bathroom break?" Neville asked, having an idea what problem Luna was suffering from right now, since he had the same problem.
Luna blushed, this being one of the things making her feel embarrassed. Her rubbing her legs against each other was another sign how much this had affected her. "Yes, please! This feels quite uncomfortable and I don't feel comfortable going further.."
"I don't want to, either. That's after all quite the big step..." He then did write a note and both of them quickly left to reach the nearest bathrooms.
It was a sign of how much their relationship had grown that they now, despite embarrassment, admitted to each other how much their make-out session had riled them up and that they needed to masturbate to take care of the issue. They were not that far along that they could take care of this together, such things needed time.
As some would add however, looking at it from the outside they both were progressing nicely.
to be continued...
Next Episode:
"The History of Tom Riddle"
Notes:
Here the notes.
Well, the first part of the chapter basically is school life. I basically used all of that for character moments, like reinforcing Snape's teaching methods. However, we also learn Aragog is dying, that the centaur situation could go nasty soon enough and how Draco and Pansy are scheming.
The same essentially goes for the meeting at the end of the week, though here we also see Hermione and Ron having made considerable progress in a certain area...
We take a nice look at the political side of things back in London, and what a mess it is. Also, Narcissa is not just acting. She honestly believes that what happened to her family is unjust, even though they did it to themselves with their actions.
More involvement of MI-X. I am already planning for the beginning of Year 7. Because... let's be honest, the canon plan to get Harry out was still not very smart, since they didn't even bother with thinking about non-magical solutions. No thinking outside of the box.
While Quidditch tryouts in themself are not very exciting, Harry and Ginny are getting naughty. Not only them, but Neville and Luna as well. I know... but they are all teenagers and this year is going to become rather spicy.
I know, not too much story development in this chapter, but this chapter mainly was for a breather, since you've already seen what the next chapter will be. Also, next chapter the plot at Hogwarts will kick off.