A/N: I do not own any character references by JK Rowling in the Harry Potter series. This story is a product of my pure imagination.
Everybody's waitin'
Everybody's watchin'
Even when you're sleepin'
Keep your eyes open.
The tricky thing is yesterday, we were just children.
Playing soldiers, just pretending.
Dreaming dreams with happy endings.
In backyards, winning battles with our wooden swords.
But now we've stepped into a cruel world.
Where everybody stands and keeps score.
~ Eyes Open by Taylor Swift
*~*~*October 7, 1998 *~*~*
Hermione put her finger to her lips and quietly crept over to where she heard very loud kissing. She and Harry were walking down the corridors doing their late-night patrols when Hermione heard giggling behind the tapestry in front of dungeon #5. Pulling back the tapestry, she found two Ravenclaws
"Ten points from Ravenclaw!" Hermione stated as the girl gasped, "Each!"
Harry tried not to laugh as the sixth-year Ravenclaws scurried off out of the dungeons, "You are so scary. Look how they ran."
Hermione hit his stomach as they walked deeper into the dungeons. They were near classroom 13 when they were face to face with a group of Slytherins.
"Potter, Granger, a little lost, are we?"
Harry frowned when Alistair Snyder came to the front of the group and stepped forward to block Harry and Hermione's path. The sneer on his face reminded Harry so much of Malfoy that he had to step back.
"It is after curfew, and it's 12:30. You all need to go back to your common room at once," Hermione informed them, trying to stand taller.
Looking directly at Hermione, Alister stared at her, "Well, if it isn't Hermione Granger, the Mudblood who thinks she can be in charge of us."
Harry grabbed his wand as Hermione's face turned pale, and she clenched her fists. Still, she remembered her role as Head Girl and kept her composure, "We're here to ensure that all students can learn and thrive at Hogwarts," She replied firmly, "We are also here to maintain the safety of everyone in the castle. So I am asking you again to head back to your dormitory."
Another student in the group, a girl with a haughty expression that looked too much like Pansy Parkinson to be a coincidence, chimed in, "You know, Muggleborns like you dilute the purity of magic. It's time we purify Hogwarts. Too many of you returned."
Harry felt anger build but Hermione squeezed his arm and it seemed to calm him. He spoke up, his voice controlled, "We're all students of Hogwarts, and we're here to learn and grow together. Discrimination has no place here."
Alistair sneered, his voice dripping with mockery. "Oh, Harry Potter, always the hero, defending the Mudbloods. How noble of you."
Hermione's teeth gritted together, and she bit her lip to avoid responding angrily. Harry, however, took a step closer to Alistair, his face stern and his eyes locked onto the student in front of him, "You'd do well to remember that we're in this together for the good of all witches and wizards. We all have the same color of blood in our veins, and all bleed red when we are hurt. Our unity makes us strong, and hate has no place at Hogwarts. Now step aside, and let us continue our rounds."
"Watch yourself, Potter. You may have defeated Voldemort, but many of his followers are still around," Alistair said as he glanced back to his group, "Go."
Alistair and his group reluctantly ventured further down the dungeons towards the Slytherin common room, allowing Harry and Hermione to pass and continue their rounds. Hermione felt a dreading feeling deep in her stomach, "Harry, you don't think someone is trying to take over for him? Do you?"
Harry sighed as he took her hand to calm her, "I hope not, but you never know. Voldemort rose after Grindlewald. There will always be prejudice, even if we try to stop it. We need to talk to McGonagall tomorrow."
"She is on a visit to Beauxbatons, remember? She will be back on Saturday. We will speak to her then," Hermione said, glancing back towards where the Slytherin's had retreated.
*~*~*October 10, 1998 *~*~*
After receiving an owl from Professor McGonagall, Hermione walked down to the Quidditch pitch where Harry and the Gryffindor Quidditch team practiced.
"PEAKES! GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER!" Ginny's voice echoes through the grounds as she reaches closer to the pitch, sounding more like her mother than ever, "FAWLEY SCORED A GOAL, AND YOU HAD A WIDE OPENING AND NOTHING!"
Once in sight of the pitch, she could see Harry flying high over the stands with Marshall Hannigan, his reserve, following behind him. Walking over to the posts, she leaned against them until Harry saw her. Waving at him, she spotted the snitch only a few feet above her. Jumping up, she got it into her hand before it flew away. Holding it up with a grin, Harry flew over to Ginny, said something to her, kissed her cheek, and then flew down to Hermione. Jumping off his broom, he laughed, "Look at you, caught the snitch before I did."
"Doubt you were even looking for it at the time," Hermione said as she handed it to him, "McGonagall owled us. She is back and wants to see us."
Harry nodded, "Sonorus, HANNIGAN, ITS ON YOU!" He released the snitch, "Quietus, alright, let's go."
"Do you need to put your broom away?" Hermione asked him, "I can wait."
"This doesn't get stored in the broomstick shed. Not that I don't trust others," Harry told her as they started towards the castle, "I just don't want the possibility of it getting sabotaged."
"And the Slytherins may just do that," Hermione nodded.
"Exactly," Harry said, catching her as she nearly tripped by a quick arm around her waist, "What do you think McGonagall wants to talk about?"
"I left her a note about our rounds and what happened, so probably that," Hermione said as they made their way to the entrance hall, "So how are the prospects looking?"
Harry removed his arm from her waist and looked at her strangely, "You don't talk about Quidditch. We don't talk about Quidditch, ever."
Hermione stopped in her tracks, looking up at him as he stopped four stairs above her, "Excuse me, Mr. I live and breathe Quidditch. We have had plenty of talks, and I've only missed one of your matches. So excuse me for finding the sport where you purposely send a flying missile towards your opponent barbaric. Plus, you care about it, and you are my best friend."
Harry sighed as he shook his head, "Sorry, to answer your question, we aren't one of the teams of the past, but I think we are getting there."
Hermione climbed up to walk beside him, "Good, Ginny seems to have you all practicing enough."
After finally making it to the seventh floor after some delays from the stairs being positioned weirdly, they walked up to McGonagall's office.
"Puddlemere," Harry said as the Gargoyle moved and they walked up the stairs. Hermione knocked on the office door, and McGonagall instructed them to enter.
"Have a seat," She told them as they walked in and sat in front of her desk, "I received your note about the students you encountered on rounds. This just adds to my growing list of concerns. Have you noticed that the grand stairs are stationary?"
"What caused them to be stationary?" Hermione asked her.
"I set it that way after the stairs malfunctioned and a second year nearly fell multiple stories if not for a quick-thinking sixth year," Professor McGonagall stated, "There have been attacks on Muggle-borns, and a few Pureblood extremists' actions have been causing rising tensions amongst the students. Two students I know of have been brought to the hospital wing."
"That is deeply concerning," Hermione frowned.
"And I agree. We must find a way to resolve some of the tensions within the school and ensure the safety of all the students," McGonagall told them.
Harry sat back, "We can't let this continue, Professor. We fought so this wouldn't be a battleground of narrow-mindedness any longer."
Hermione cleared her throat, "We were naive to believe that once he died, they would suddenly see reality, instead of their views of pureblood purity.
McGonagall sat back against her chair, "Draco Malfoy has been saying that, surprisingly, a small number of students of old families are trying to gain traction within their common room. They call themselves the Pureblood Purity Alliance. He is helping to keep an eye on them from within, but I want you two to keep your eyes open as well."
"Malfoy?" Harry asked surprised.
"Ma'am, why did the stairs malfunction? According to Hogwarts, a History, there are enchantments in place to prevent incidents such as that," Hermione stated ignoring Harry.
"The castle's magic is tied to the ambient magic of the school. The portraits, stairs, and the ceiling in the Great Hall are enchantments tied to the school's overall magic. Other unexplained incidents have occurred, not including the stairs. The portraits are freezing in place and not responding. The staircases were moving unpredictably, so they had to be frozen. The magic of the enchantments is becoming unstable because so are the tensions," McGonagall explained, "It is a serious issue and could endanger many lives. We need to come up with a plan of immediate action."
"We need to build and promote the unity within the school," Hermione suggested.
"Why don't we go muggle?" Harry suggested as Hermione looked at him, "Hold some events that people would see in muggle culture. Why don't we do a Halloween costume party for the whole school? Have students create their own costumes and have a costume contest with awards. We can have a Christmas ball just before Christmas so students can still go home. Fight the prejudice with what they are confused about to show how it isn't so bad after all. They are scared by what they don't know about. Purebloods and the Wizarding world have been taught to fear muggles, so they don't know how to accept them."
"It's more than that. The professors need to get involved as well. No offense, Professor," Hermione stated as she looked at McGonagall, "Growing up, the bullying I went through, even Harry being who he was, went through bullying by Snape and other students. Hardly any other adults, if any, ever stood up and stopped it. Harry would come back every year starved and withdrawn. No one helped him."
"Hermione," Harry swallowed, "I'm fine."
"But you could not have been! They starved you, Harry! You sent me letters asking for food!" Hermione looked at McGonagall, "My parents wrote to Dumbledore and were told he had to stay. Despite being starved, despite watching Cedric die in front of him… he had to stay in a home of neglect!"
"I'm truly sorry," Dumbledore's portrait stated, "I thought it was the best for the greater good."
Hermione pivoted and glared at his portrait, "And you! My parents wrote to you telling you of their concerns. Valid concerns that they could see in the brief times when they saw him, and you ignored them! They could have killed him!"
Harry grabbed her arm and hissed, "Hermione, you are sparking!"
Hermione looked at where Harry's arm was on hers, and she could feel her magic reacting making the hairs on Harry's arm stand on end. Closing her eyes, she breathed slowly, trying to calm down, "It's not right, Harry."
Harry pulled her into a hug, "It's over. I'm away from them and never have to see them again. I can live with you or the Weasleys. Hell, I can even go back to Grimmauld's place if I want. I never have to go back there."
Hermione cleared her throat, "I'm okay," She breathed as she looked at McGonagall, "So a Halloween costume party and a Winter ball. Why don't we set up carnival-sort games at the Halloween dance?" Hermione asked, looking at Harry, "Did your primary ever have a Halloween carnival?"
"Yeah, but I never went. Sounds like fun," Harry told her.
McGonagall stood up and walked around her desk, leaning against it, "I will trust the two of you to organize these events. Please have the prefects help you."
Hermione nodded, "Thank you, Professor."
"If either of you need help, please let me know," McGonagall told them.
"Have a good night, Professor," Harry said as he led Hermione out of the office, "You know who we should contact, don't you?"
Hermione shook her head as they walked out of the stairs and down the corridor towards the East tower.
"Dean, he would be great to help us with the music, muggle, and wizard, plus he's artistic," Harry said as they neared the Head's office.
Hermione stopped and smiled, "That's a fantastic idea, Harry! We should owl him and explain in the morning."
"Or, we can visit him in person," Harry suggested, "I'll go to Hogsmeade with you. We will talk to your parents and then tuck into Diagon Alley. Maybe visit London to get ideas for what we may want for food. I bet we can get the House Elves to make cotton candy and candied apples."
"Potter is an otter! Trying to sneaky out of the castle!" Peeves yelled from down the hallway with a cackle.
Hermione turned, "We are the Head Boy and Girl. We can leave the castle. Do I need to get the Bloody Baron?"
Harry laughed as Peeves blew raspberries and then left. "Wow, not even Filch can do that."
"Come on, let's go throw together some ideas," Hermione said as she grabbed his arm and pulled him into the head office. When she stopped, Harry slammed into her back, "Oh hi Ginny."
"Hey, what did McGonagall want?" Ginny asked.
Hermione dropped his arm, "Some incidents are happening. The castle's magic is becoming unstable because of the tensions between the purebloods and the muggleborns. We were brainstorming with McGonagall how to resolve the issue."
Ginny frowned, "Is that why the stairs aren't moving?"
Harry nodded, "We are planning a Halloween party for the school. Costumes, games, music, food. Plus a Christmas dance."
"Sounds like fun," Ginny told Harry as she walked over and put her arms around his neck to kiss him, "Want to come down to dinner with me?"
"It's dinner time already?" Harry asked, surprised, "Sometimes I miss Ron and his clock of a stomach."
Hermione scoffed, "Go ahead, I'm going to write some ideas down. I'll see you guys in a bit."
Harry looked back as Hermione walked up the stairs to their common room, "You won't forget, will you?"
"I'll be down before dinner is over," Hermione told him as the door closed behind her.
"We will grab her a plate if she forgets. You know she will," Ginny said as she took his hand, "So tell me all about this Halloween party."
*~*~*October 11, 1998 *~*~*
Hermione pulled her scarf around her as she and Harry entered Hogs Head, "It is getting colder fast," Hermione said as she shivered, "I'm not ready for winter after last year."
"At least we won't have to hike through the snow this year," Harry said as he walked up to the bar, "Hello, Aberforth, may I have two butterbeers, please?"
"Potter, can't believe you'd show your face around here. You are bound to be mobbed," Aberforth said, taking the sickles and knuts from Harry.
"Eventually, it will all have to die down. Plus, it is 9 am. Hopefully, everyone is still asleep," Harry told him as he took the Butterbeers, "Thanks."
"Can I go back to use your phone?" Hermione asked Aberforth.
"You know where it is," Aberforth told her as he returned to cleaning the bar.
Hermione led Harry to the room they had hidden when they arrived before the battle. Harry nodded to the portrait of Ariana, who smiled.
Hermione sat in the armchair beside a phone and picked up the receiver. Harry looked around at the bookcase Aberforth had books on, which had many books about the history of magic and Merlin.
"Hello? Granger- Wilkins residence."
"Hello, Mum, how are you?" Hermione asked, watching Harry.
"I'm doing well. We had our best day so far the other day. We sold out of the sugar-free chocolate frogs. People think they are cute," Juliet Granger told her over the phone.
"That is good. How is Dad?" Hermione asked her.
"Oh, he is just the same as always," Juliet told her, "Annoying me to no end. How are you, darling?"
"I'm good. Harry came with me this morning," Hermione told Juliet.
"Really? Just Harry?" Juliet inquired.
"Yeah, come here, Harry," Hermione motioned, and he walked over so she could stand up. She handed him the phone. "Go ahead and say hello."
"Hello, Mrs. Granger," Harry said after taking the phone.
"Hello Harry, how are you doing?" Juliet asked, "It's a pleasure to hear your voice."
"I'm doing well, classes are going well, and we are learning a lot," Harry told her.
"How is my daughter doing?" Juliet asked, "Is she having nightmares again?"
Harry looked away from Hermione, "Not as much. We are doing better."
"Sit," Hermione instructed him as he sat down in the chair, and she sat on the armrest next to him so that they could both hear through the handset, "Alright, Mum, you have us both now."
"So Harry said classes are going well. Any new exciting developments?" Juliet asked.
"Well, the castle is still having some trouble with functionality. It turns out that the castle's magic is fed from ambient magic, and there are still many tensions in the air from purebloods and muggleborns, so it is affecting the castle," Hermione told her.
"Wow, how can that be fixed?" Juliet asked.
"Harry had a wonderful idea. So many wizards are afraid of anything muggle, so we will bring it to them," Hermione told her as she smiled at Harry, "We are going to do a little carnival like we had in primary school."
"With the cute little games and all?" Juliet asked.
"Yes, ma'am," Harry said, "We also want to play a mix of muggle and wizarding music."
"Sounds like a great idea. Dip their toes into our culture to show them how interesting we can be. I like that idea," Juliet told them.
"It wasn't just my idea. It was Hermione's, too. We are a good team," Harry said as he squeezed Hermione's hand.
"Sounds like it. So I have a surprise," Juliet told them, "I'm coming home for Christmas!"
Hermione gasped, "Really, Mum!?"
"Yes, your father and I thought we would look into possibly opening a location back home when we come home. So I thought I'd come home for a few weeks while you were home for Christmas so that we could be together for Christmas," Juliet told her.
"What about Daddy?" Hermione asked.
"Sorry, sweetheart, but he does have to stay back to take care of the store. Hopefully, next Christmas or sometime next year, he can come back for a visit," Juliet said as his voice was heard in the background, "Dan, I am on the phone with Hermione and Harry. Let me put this on speaker. Dan, how do you get this on speaker? Oh, there it is. Say hello."
"Hello, Daddy!" Hermione said.
"Hello honey, Harry. How are you both?" Dan asked on the other side of the line.
"Doing well. Preparing for a muggle-style carnival. After we hang up, we will go into London to see what we can find," Hermione told him.
"Those wizards won't know what hit them. How is Quidditch, Harry? You are playing this year, correct?" Dan asked.
"Yes, sir, the first game is coming soon," Harry told him.
"Do you think you have a good team this year?" Dan asked.
"Not the best, but they all have heart and determination. We will do well," Harry informed him.
"That's the spirit," Dan stated, "Do you both need anything?"
"No, we are doing fine, Daddy," Hermione stated.
"Well, I need to hop in the shower before bed. Goodnight to you both," Dan told them, "I guess it's not night to them."
"Goodnight, Daddy, sweet dreams," Hermione told him, "Love you."
"Love you too, Princess," Dan said.
"So tell me your plans for this carnival. Which games do you plan on orchestrating?" Juliet asked.
Running through the wall separating Diagon Alley and the muggle world, Harry opened the door to the Leaky Cauldron so that he and Hermione could escape the people following them through Diagon Alley.
Glancing around, Hermione sighed in relief as she saw fewer people within the bar than usual.
Walking over to the bar, trying to catch her breath, Hermione sat down on a stool as Harry walked up next to her, "Tom, can we have two glasses of water, please?"
"Everything alright?" Tom asked as he poured them two glasses of water.
"People used to call me famous, but I could walk through Diagon Alley without issues. Now, people won't leave me alone. I just did what needed to be done. Now people are chasing us through Diagon Alley," Harry said, frustrated.
Harry jumped on guard as the door opened to the Alley, then sighed in relief as Dean walked through.
"Blimey Harry," Dean said, shaking his head as Harry sat back down next to Hermione, "I ended up having to seal the entrance, Tom. Sorry."
"I'll unseal it once they leave. I'm sorry they won't leave you alone, Mr. Potter," Tom told him.
"Thank you," Harry said as he rested his head on the bar, "How am I supposed to be an Auror like this? I could never properly do my job without disguises."
"It will tone down, Harry. It hasn't even been six months," Hermione told him as she rubbed his back.
Harry stood up, "Thank you, Tom. Ready Hermione? Let's go and get this done with."
"Thank you, Tom," Hermione said as she followed Dean and Harry into the London streets.
Dean glanced at them, walking through the streets, "So, I would stop at the art store to get the materials I need. I would suggest Carnaby Street or even the Antique Market. You may find some classic games there."
"Thank you, Dean, for offering to help us," Hermione told him, "You were always the best artist in our year."
"So how is Hogwarts now that most of our year did not return?" Dean asked.
"Different. For us, it is weird without Neville, you, Ron, and Seamus," Harry told him as he glanced at Hermione.
"Although having the private common room and individual bedrooms are nice. I never really got along with my roommates," Hermione told them as Harry pulled her towards him as a bicyclist nearly knocked her over, "Thank you." They grabbed Harry's arm as they crossed the road and reached the antique market.
"So, have you two decided what to do after schooling?" Dean asked as they reached the busy street famous for its antiques and art.
"I plan on being an Auror, but that may be an issue, as you saw in the Alley. Honestly, I don't know what else to do," Harry told him as Hermione stopped to look at some books.
"What about you, Hermione?" Dean asked as she walked away from the booth.
" I have been considering studying in college before going into the Ministry," Hermione told Dean, taking Harry's arm as he offered it to her, "Kingsley has already made much progress, but I'm still not sure I'm ready, or it is ready for me. Kingsley and Professor Romero said a study abroad program in the United States with MACUSA exists. I'm contemplating it, honestly. "
Harry stopped and looked at her, "Seriously? Leaving the UK for schooling?"
"Seeing a different perspective on the wizarding world would be interesting. It would be at a Muggle college, but they also have a building for wizarding classes. So you take both magical and non-magical perspectives for a more well-rounded education," Hermione told them.
"Sounds like you are leaning more into that," Harry said as they started walking again.
"I have thought of it," Hermione admitted, "Specifically if Mum and Dad don't return. You, Ron, and our friends are the only thing holding me here."
Harry turned to her and placed his hands on her shoulders, "I'll support you no matter what you do."
*~*~*October 12, 1998 *~*~*
"NO!"
Hermione sat up straight in bed, looking around for the source of the scream that had awoken her from her sleep in the middle of the night. Her bedroom was dark, with only the moonlight coming through the window. "Tempus" revealed that it was 2:34 in the morning. Sighing, she laid back down, realizing that she must have been having a nightmare.
"Please don't hurt her! I'll do anything!" Harry's voice screamed from across the common room.
Hermione threw the covers off her body, and despite the chilling cold floor, she was running the moment her feet touched it.
"Help us! Please, anyone, help us!" Harry screamed as she raced around the couch, "Don't hurt her, or I'll kill you! Please!"
Hermione tried to open the door, but it was locked. "Alohomora!"
The door flew open just as Harry sobbed, "Go run! I have to save her! Please, let me save her!"
"Lumos!" Hermione ran over to his bed and grabbed his shoulder as he thrashed about, "Harry! Harry, wake up! Please wake up!"
His pajamas were soaked through, and his sheets were twisted around his body.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Harry screamed as he opened his eyes and shot up, looking around, wand in his hand.
Straddling his legs, "Harry, it's me. It was just a dream," Hermione told him as she grabbed his wand and pointed it towards the sky, making sparks rain down over them.
"Hermione?" Harry's voice broke as he said her name, "You are okay. Where are we?"
"At Hogwarts. You just had a nightmare," Hermione said as he rested his forehead against her shoulder, catching his breath, "It's okay. You are okay."
"I'm so sorry that I woke you. I must have forgotten the silencing charm," Harry said as he ran his hands over his face, "I was just so tired when we got back, and I crashed as soon as I laid down. Go back to bed. I'll be fine."
Hermione lifted the sheets to the other side of his bed, saying, "Nope, I'm staying here tonight."
"You don't have to do that," Harry insisted.
Hermione grabbed the pillow he wasn't using and grabbed his wand, "Geminio, Geminio," Hermione duplicated the pillow twice and placed them between his body and where she would be laying, "Here, you stay on your side, and I'll stay on mine. That sounded like a nasty nightmare, so I want to be here in case you have another, and no, you don't have a choice. I'm staying."
Harry sighed as he laid back against his pillow and took his wand as she handed it back to him, "Nox." Slipping it back under his pillow, he looked at the ceiling as Hermione lay down.
Fluffing her pillow, she turned on her side away from him. Closing her eyes, she listened to his familiar breathing that had lulled her to sleep many nights in the tent.
"Hermione?" Harry's voice broke through the silence.
"Yeah?"
"Thank you for everything. For keeping me alive all these years and just being there when no one else was," Harry said quietly.
Hermione rolled over and reached over the pillows for his hand, "You are one of the most important people in my life. One of my first friends. There is nowhere else I'd rather be."
*~*~*October 25, 1998 *~*~*
When Harry found her, Hermione was sitting by the Black Lake under their tree with parchment spread all around her.
Groaning, he lay down on the ground, looking up at the tree's limbs, causing bits of her parchment to fly around.
"What's wrong?"Hermione asked, gathering her papers and putting them in a neat stack beside her.
Harry took his glasses off and laid them on his stomach, "Another reporter tried to sneak into the grounds."
Hermione laughed, "What happened to this one?"
"Hagrid made them piss their pants," Harry sighed, "Grawp was there too, I guess. What are you working on?"
"Just making sure all the details for this week are ready," Hermione told him as she tapped his forehead, "Come here."
Harry opened his eyes and looked up at her, "What?"
Hermione patted her lap, "Headache?"
Harry moved into her lap, closed his eyes as her gentle fingers massaged his temples, and then worked through his hair. After a few minutes, she picked up one of her documents with the menu she had been working on with Winky, and with her hand not running through his messy hair, she flipped through the parchment.
"Well, isn't this cozy," Luna said as she walked over to them.
When Harry didn't open his eyes, Hermione shook her head, "I guess he fell asleep."
Luna sat down next to her, "Is he alright? His Nargle infestation was always bad, but it is worse lately."
Hermione sighed, "His nightmares are back. Halloween is always hard for him anyway. I'm glad we are doing the costume party and meeting everyone at the Three Broomsticks afterward."
Luna frowned, "Is there anything we can do to help him?"
Hermione ran her fingers through his silky hair and smiled as he sighed, moving closer to her hand, "Just be there for him if he needs us. Be his friends like we have been."
*~*~*October 31, 1998 *~*~*
Hermione carried the box of the last few items into the Great Hall and saw Ginny setting up the Witches Hat Ring Toss booth, "Looks great, Ginny. Thanks for helping."
"Got the cauldrons?" Harry asked as he walked over to them.
Hermione handed him the box of small cauldrons, "The balls are also in there."
"Thanks," Harry said as he walked off towards the other side of the hall where the other booths were set up.
Hermione looked around the room as Luna walked around, carrying empty Butterbeer bottles and talking with Sir Nicholas.
"I don't understand why it is called Ghost Bowling when no ghosts are participating," Nicholas stated, gliding behind Luna.
"Witches Hat ring toss over there, Harry is setting up the Cauldron pong toss, Bobbing for apples over there, Luna is setting up ghost bottle bowling, Hagrid has the Spider web obstacle course over there," Hermione named off.
Ginny froze, "Hagrid set it up?"
"I supervised. We used acromantula silk to do the maze. Still, the spiders are transfigured plates," Hermione assured her. "Ritchie is doing the wrap the mummy game; the animated suits of armor need some extra charms, but it will be a fun activity to race against another person. The invisible walls for the pumpkin balloon room are set up over there. The cream pie eating contest will happen an hour after everything starts. I think we are all set after Harry sets up the cauldrons."
"Good, I need to double-check my costume before I put it on," Ginny said, looking towards Harry. "Tell him I'll meet you at your common room 30 minutes before."
"Alright, thanks for your help, Ginny," Hermione told her as she left.
Hermione walked over to the cauldron booth, "Almost done?"
"Yeah, just putting the last cauldrons together," Harry told her as he looked back at her, "Do you need to go get ready?"
Hermione nodded, "I'll go up and hop in the shower, then I will all be yours."
Hermione pulled on her chemise, then slipped into her petticoat. Grabbing her corset, she slid it over her body and attempted to pull it tight. It was either too loose or tight, even after trying to aim a spell at the string.
"Hey, Harry? Are you out there?" Hermione yelled.
"Everything okay?" He asked on the other side of the door.
"Yes, but I need your help if possible," Hermione told him, "Can you come in?"
Her bedroom door opened, and Harry walked in, "Sorry!" He covered his eyes, "I thought you said to come in. I didn't realize you were in a nightgown."
"It's a chemise," Hermione informed him, "I need your help tying my corset."
Harry uncovered his eyes, "Corset? What the hell are you going as?"
Hermione turned around and looked at him, "One of the March sisters from Little Women. It's my favorite book of all time."
"I think I've heard of it; what do you need me to do?" Harry asked, walking up behind her.
"Pull the strings until I tell you to stop. I tried a spell, but it was either too tight or too loose," Hermione said, pulling her hair to the side.
"How about that?" Harry asked, pulling the strings.
"Tighter, tighter, there," Hermione said, "Tie it tight."
"Can you even breathe in this?" Harry asked, concerned.
"It is historically accurate," Hermione explained as she looked at herself in the mirror, "Wow, I look so thin with this."
Harry frowned, "You were already thin, Hermione."
Hermione looked at him, "What are you going as?"
"Nothing original like you; I'm just wearing my Quidditch gear," Harry told her, "I'll let you go finish getting ready."
"Thank you, Harry," Hermione told him as he shut the door behind him. Grabbing her petticoat, she stepped into it, stepped into her hoop skirt, and layered the petticoat. She pulled her dress out of the closet that she had transfigured from a silk nightgown; it was a silk party dress. Sliding it over her head, she zipped up the zipper on the side. Smoothing down the silk, she grabbed her Sleekeazy potion and then applied it to her hair to smooth it. With her wand, she curled her hair into a more controlled curl. Pinning her hair to the side with a brooch, she looked at herself in the mirror. Satisfied with her appearance, she pulled up her skirts and slid her stocking feet into her heels.
With one last glance in the mirror, she exited her bedroom to find Ginny on top of Harry on the couch, "My word! Sorry!"
"Hermione!" Harry said as Ginny sat up, and he stood up quickly, "Sorry, we just… you look amazing."
Ginny smiled as she stood up and grabbed Harry's arm, "Sorry, Hermione, whoa, this dress is amazing," Ginny said as she walked over to her, "And your breasts, you have breasts in it!"
Hermione looked down, "Is it too much?"
"Too bad Ron won't be here. We need to find a camera to send Ron a picture of this," Ginny said as he looked back at Harry, "Don't you think, Harry?"
Harry looked at Ginny, "Think what?"
"That Hermione looks amazing; she looks like Morgana reincarnated," Ginny said, "What are you dressed as?"
"A character from Little Women, her favorite book," Harry told Ginny, "You do look amazing."
"It's not too much, is it?" Hermione said as she smoothed out the layers.
"No, not at all. Let's go have fun," Ginny said, grabbing her arm, "Sorry for what you walked in on. Harry is always so serious, and I have always had a thing for good-looking Quidditch players."
"It's alright. Do you think it would be too much to wear this tonight to the Three Broomsticks?" Hermione asked.
Ginny grinned, "Did Ron say he was going to be there?"
"He was going to try," Hermione told her.
Ginny nodded, "Then you must."
"I would say this was a surprising success."
Hermione turned towards the voice to see Professor McGonagall standing with a slight smile, "I think so as well; the muggleborns and half-blood students are enjoying themselves with familiar festivities, and the purebloods even seem to be as well alongside each other."
McGonagall smiled, "Mr. Filch has told me that the enchantments in the ceiling started by themselves tonight."
Hermione looked up at the star-filled night sky of the Great Hall, "That is a great sign."
McGonagall gave her a rare large smile, "Very great sign, thanks to you and Mr. Potter. You two are very much a team not to be underestimated. I can also tell you have had a wonderful influence on him this year. His grades have improved. Although, I assume Mr. Weasley not being here is part of it as well."
Hermione laughed, "He does have fewer distractions. More time to apply himself and, well, as much as I love Ron, more time for the both of us to devote to our studies."
"Oh, there is Mr. Longbottom; I better go check in with him to see how he is," McGonagall told her.
Hermione turned and followed her as she left to see Neville standing with Luna, who had come dressed as Mother Nature, as they talked to Professor Sprout. With a sigh, Hermione looked around to see if Ron had also come.
"He's not here."
Hermione looked at Sir. Nicholas, "Excuse me, who is not here, Sir. Nicholas?"
"Mr. Weasley, I've heard you and Mr. Potter talking about the two of you. Mr. Longbottom returned to the castle, but Mr. Weasley did not," Sir. Nicholas informed her.
"Thank you," Hermione said as she walked towards Neville and Luna, "Neville, so good to see you."
"Hermione!" Neville said as he grinned, seeing her, "You look wonderful!"
"Thank you," Hermione said as she looked around, "Did Ron come with you?"
Neville cleared his throat, "No, but he will be coming to the Three Broomsticks tonight. I can't believe how lovely you look tonight. Ron would be kicking himself for missing it."
"She looks like a fairy princess," Luna smiled.
"It was inspired by the muggle story, Little Women. It's one of my favorite books of all time," Hermione told them as Harry approached them. "Feet finally fell off? I saw Ginny and you dancing nearly this entire time in the balloon room."
"There was music I had heard when Dudley played it. I could never enjoy it then. It was better dancing with Ginny to it," Harry said, "She went upstairs to change before we headed to the Three Broomsticks." The music changed to a slower song, "Could I have this dance? We never got to dance at the Yule Ball."
"You hated slow dancing," Hermione told him.
Harry offered his hand and led her to the dance floor, "You just have to have the right partner. Ron and I were stupid then, not asking you. We never did give you enough credit."
Hermione placed her hand on his arm, "Both of you were young teenage boys who thought of me as another boy."
"Not true," Harry said as he slowly remembered the moves that McGonagall had taught them before the Yule Ball, "I always knew you were a girl. I was just distracted by the tasks and, worse, having to dance. Too much pressure was on me that year, but again, you got me through it like you always do."
Hermione smiled as they danced through the entire song.
"You can dance," Harry said surprised.
"I love to dance. I took lessons when I was younger. According to my parents, it was a way to get me away from a book," Hermione told him as she spun around and tripped, nearly falling into him, "Not to say that I am the most graceful, that is."
Harry looked around as a faster song came on, "Do we have to stay to clean up?"
"No, McGonagall told me the professors and staff will clean up for us. They are planning to save everything to do it next year," Hermione said as she looked at the clock, "Ron should be coming to Hogsmeade soon. We can head there."
"I'll go get Ginny," Harry said, letting go of her hand.
Hermione sighed as he walked out of the hall.
"We will walk with you," Luna said as she came up next to her and took Hermione's arm in hers as Neville had her other in his, "What are friends for?"
Walking into the Three Broomsticks, it was surprisingly more empty than Hermione thought it would be for Halloween night. The pub was dimly lit and had a cozy feel with the festive decorations that were scattered about it. Various witches and wizards were in robes, but some were in costumes like Hermione as Madam Rosmerta walked over to them.
"Happy Halloween! Do you want a private room tonight with the crowd?" Rosmerta asked.
"Harry is coming in a bit, so a private room would be amazing," Hermione said as she looked around, "The press and… let's just say fans have gotten bad lately."
"You are safe here; head on back through that door. I know your group, so I'll make sure they are the only ones through," Rosmerta told them.
"Thank you," Hermione said as they walked to the private room, and Dean and Seamus flagged them down, "In here, guys."
After settling in the private room at the large table near a fireplace, Harry and Ginny joined them, with Rosmerta following them.
"Hello, aren't you just a big group of trouble," Rosmerta joked, "What does everyone want?"
"Just a Butterbeer for me, please," Hermione ordered.
"Same for me," Ginny said as she sat next to Harry in between him and Neville.
"I'll take a tray of Ogden's and a Mead," Seamus told Rosmerta.
"Spiced Mead, please," Dean ordered.
"Butterbeer," Luna stated.
"Mr. Potter?" Rosmerta asked.
"Just a Butterbeer for me," Harry told her.
"So, Seamus, how are you doing?" Hermione asked, smoothing down her dress, wishing she had changed before leaving Hogwarts.
"I got a flat; not sure if I told you all that. Other than that, working life is barmy," Seamus told them, "Thank you, Rose," He said as Rosmerta brought all their drinks and sat them on the table.
"I say tonight deserves a toast," Hermione said as everyone grabbed their drinks, "To life, love, and the future. May we all be ready for where life takes us after we all experienced."
"Hear hear," Seamus said, taking a shot of Firewhiskey, "Man, that's powerful. Potter, have one."
"Nah, I'm good," Harry said as he sat back with his arm over Ginny's chair.
"So, how is Hogwarts?" Seamus asked, downing another shot of Firewhiskey.
"Well, much calmer this year; the threat of possibly dying hasn't occurred yet, so it's been a bit boring," Harry joked as Hermione hit him, "What?"
"Well, it was nice to get through a Halloween without any incidents," Hermione said as Seamus offered Harry a Firewhiskey again. Harry took it, knocked back the shot, and coughed as it burned, "We have had rotten luck on Halloween. The first year, Troll attack."
"Hey, that was the start of our friendship, so partial win there," Harry told her as he took a drink of Butterbeer.
"True, then the second year the Chamber of Secrets opened the first time," Hermione said as she glanced at Ginny, who shuttered, "Sirius attacked the Fat Lady, and we all had to sleep in the Great Hall in the third year, then the whole Goblet of Fire fiasco in our fourth year. Our Fifth year, was just a horrible year all around with Umbridge, and then sixth year wasn't too eventful. Last year, who knows what we were all doing to survive. So I'm glad for a nice year for once."
"Don't forget, Voldemort was supposedly defeated on this day," Ginny stated.
"After killing my parents," Harry reminded her.
"Who wants more Firewhiskey?" Seamus asked as Ginny turned pale as Seamus passed out the remaining shot glasses to him, Dean, and Harry grabbed the last shot of Firewhiskey, and then they all tossed them back, "Empty we are, need more."
Ginny followed Seamus to the bar, and Harry sighed, "I can't believe him."
Hermione frowned, "Seamus?"
"No, Ron! Standing you up," Harry said as Neville swallowed hard, looking around.
"He said he was going to be here," Neville reminded him, "The Auror he is teamed up with is difficult. I have it easier, so I have been leaving earlier."
After about a half hour, between the alcohol, friends, and lots of reminiscing, Ron showed up. He stopped short as he saw Harry arm wrestling with Seamus, and Hermione sat in a large pink dress as Luna braided her hair.
"What did I miss?" Ron asked, surprised.
Ginny looked up at him with a grin, "Harry has discovered the wonders of Firewhiskey."
Ron raised an eyebrow, and Hermione shot Seamus a disapproving look.
"Seamus, I think Harry's had enough," Hermione said as Harry lost the arm wrestling competition and lost his balance.
"Oh, lighten up, Granger. You aren't his Mum; we are here to have fun, aren't we?" Seamus asked as he gave Harry another shot.
Ron walked over and sat down next to Hermione, "Hello."
Hermione looked at him, "Worked late?"
"Yeah," He said, looking away from her towards Harry, pouting, "It's been a bit busy."
"Ron, mate, we missed you," Harry said with a grin, "Like Hermione's costume?"
"What are you wearing, by the way?" Ron asked as Rosmerta brought him a Mead.
"This is a dress from my favorite book, Little Women. It's a period dress of the 1800s," Hermione informed him.
"Ah, looks like something my Great Aunt Tessie wore once," Ron said.
"Weasley, don't tell me you didn't notice them right away?" Seamus asked as he slapped him on the back and handed Ron a shot of Firewhiskey.
"Noticed what?" Ron asked as he downed the shot and coughed, "What was that? Goblin piss?"
"Firewhiskey, man," Seamus laughed as he sat back next to Dean, "Hey, Dean."
"Hi, Seamus, you are drunk," Dean informed him.
"Might just be," Seamus said as he looked at Ron, "Come on, even I noticed them. Granger's breasts! She's got breasts, mate!"
Hermione gasped as Harry laughed.
"Now, Seamus, that was a bit much," Harry hiccupped.
"I think it's time for a round of waters," Hermione said as she got up.
Ron looked at Harry after she left, "Mate, you alright?"
"I feel great," Harry told him with a grin, "I feel like I'm flying right now. Seamus was right, though; Hermione has boobs."
Ron frowned and grabbed another shot, "I don't like that you noticed that before I did."
"She had to have help dressing. I helped her," Harry shrugged and nearly fell out of his chair. He laughed again as his head hit Ginny's shoulder. "Hey there, beautiful."
"Hi," Ginny grinned, "I think Hermione's right. You need to lay off the liquor."
"Nah, I'm good. Really!" Harry said a little louder than usual, "Luna! Hi Luna! Where are the Wackspurtys? Are there any here?"
Luna cleared her throat as Hermione came in with two glasses of water, "Harry, you've had too much."
Harry pouted, "What are you talking about?"
After another 30 minutes, Harry let out a loud yawn, then his eyes rolled back, and his head fell forward onto the table.
"Well, Potters out!" Seamus giggled.
Dean frowned, "You just giggled, Seamus."
"Oh, Harry," Hermione sighed as she got up.
"Where are you going?" Ron asked, grabbing her arm.
"Seeing if Rosmerta might have a sober-up potion," Hermione informed him, pulling her arm from his grasp.
"That wasn't a good choice, Ron," Dean said as she left the room.
Ron sighed as he sat back in his chair, "I never make good choices around her."
"And whose fault is that?" Ginny asked as Hermione returned, "Renervate."
"That won't work; it only works with magical means of unconsciousness," Hermione informed her as she dumped a glass of water over Harry, and he sputtered, "Sorry, you have to be conscious, drink this."
Harry missed it as he went to grab it and then, with her support, took the potion. Steam poured from his ears, "That was awful."
"It will help you get back to the castle. Ron, can you help us?" Hermione asked as she looked at Neville, Luna, Dean, and Seamus. You are free to stay."
"Go take him back; I'll walk Luna back," Ginny informed her.
Ron sighed, "I guess I'll go."
"Thanks for helping with your best friend, Ron," Hermione said as she helped Harry. He stumbled before making their way into the main pub and out the door.
"Bollocks, I forgot my robes!" Ron groaned.
"Go, I got him," Hermione sighed, shivering in the crisp autumn air as Ron hurried back, "Wasted outfit."
"I think you looked amazing, and Ron is an idiot," Harry slurred, "We knew that a long time ago. What did you say, emotions like a teaspoon?"
Hermione chuckled, "Something like that," She said as Harry stumbled, and she took on more of his weight as Ron ran back to them, taking Harry's other arm.
An awkward silence carried them towards the Hogwarts gates as they supported more and more of his weight. Hermione glanced over towards Ron as the moonlight caught his clenched jaw.
Harry giggled as Hermione stated, "Ron, we need to talk."
"Talk about what, Hermione?" Ron sighed.
"Talk is a funny word," Harry giggled.
"About us," Hermione stated ignoring Harry as he repeated talk, talk, talky, talk, over and over, "I can't keep avoiding the issue of you not responding to my owls."
Ron ran his free hand through his hair, "I'm training to be an auror, Hermione! I'm busy. I get back home, and I crash. Barely have time to eat unless Mum forces me."
Hermione felt her frustration bubbling towards the surface, "Ron, we are supposed to be a couple. We need to communicate. I feel like you are just brushing aside my feelings!"
Ron stopped suddenly, causing Harry to stumble and nearly fall as he grabbed Hermione's dress, nearly pulling the top down, "Hermione, I'm not brushing you aside! Merlin, I've got a lot on my plate with Auror training! Sometimes, I can't always respond at your beck and call."
"Beck and call!? Are you serious?" Hermione asked.
"Sirius? I miss Sirius," Harry frowned.
"I know, Harry," Hermione soothed, "Ron, we need to find a way to make this work!"
"It's not that simple, Hermione! I can't just drop everything because you want me to!" Ron said, frustrated.
"I'm not asking you to drop everything, Ronald! I just want to feel like we are dating, and instead, it feels like you are avoiding me! Instead, I have to watch Harry and Ginny snogging all the time, and it hurts!" Hermione sighed.
"I like your stupid face. It's so stupid. It's so… I like it because it's like Ginny's. Can I touch it?" Harry asked Ron.
Ron sighed as his face and shoulders dropped, "I'm not doing it on purpose; I just need time to figure out the distance while figuring out the Auror thing. It's just harder than I thought," Ron said as Harry touched his face, "Harry, stop, I'm not Ginny."
Harry swayed, "Just snog and get over it with. I'm going to get sick."
Hermione looked at Harry, "Harry, we are having a serious conversation."
Harry dropped to his knees and vomited.
"Lovely," Ron said disgustedly.
"Maybe he'll get it out of his system a bit. Ron, this isn't going to be a quick fix. We need to work on communicating better. Not jumping to conclusions like we always seem to do," Hermione frowned.
"I'll try to do better," Ron told her as Harry stood up and nearly fell over, "Let's get him back."
As they approached the front gates, Harry struggled to keep his eyes open as he leaned more on them. Once in the Grand Hall, Hermione sighed, "I got it from here, Ron; go back to the Three Broomsticks. Have fun. I'm just going to get out of this and go to bed. Harry, I will immobilize and float you to our common room."
After immobilizing him and a quick levitation, Harry was floating beside her as if on a stretcher.
"I'm sorry, Hermione. I really will try harder," Ron said as he kissed her, "Goodnight."
"Goodnight," Hermione said as she climbed the stairs, and the doors shut behind him as he left.
"Miss Granger! What is wrong with Mr. Potter?" Flitwick asked as they made it to the second floor.
"Seamus was at the Three Broomsticks with us and got Harry to try Firewhiskey for the first time with some interesting results," Hermione informed him, "It's easier for me to help him back to bed this way."
"Straight to bed then," Flitwick said as Hermione continued on.
Once in their common room, Hermione passed Harry's parents' portrait. "I don't know if you understand, but he is okay. Just very drunk. I got him."
Lily smiled as James frowned as they passed by. Levitating him onto his bed, Hermione stepped back, "Finite."
"Oh shit!" Harry yelled as he threw up again.
"Evanesco," Hermione vanished his puke.
Harry stumbled to the bathroom.
"I'll be in my room if you need me!" Hermione yelled through the bathroom door.
Reaching back, she unzipped the zipper and stepped out of the many petticoats. Once she was down to the chemise, she laid back in bed.
Jumping out of bed when something hit her door, she opened it, and Harry fell into her room, "Oh, Harry."
"I don't want to be alone tonight," Harry mumbled from the floor.
Hermione sighed, "Go ahead, get in my bed. I'll be right back."
She brushed her teeth after washing the makeup from her face and brushing some of the Sleekeze from her hair. Then she walked back to her bedroom, where Harry was lying on top of the covers, his shirt half off and in his boxers.
Hermione chuckled as she noticed he had already passed out.
Climbing into bed, Hermione put out the lantern and rolled onto her side. Harry started to snore as she drifted off to sleep, lulling her into a deeper, more restful sleep.
*~*~*November 1, 1998 *~*~*
Hermione sat down at the breakfast table in the Great Hall and looked at Ginny, "When did you guys get back?"
"Not long after you. Shortly after, Ron returned. Luna and I figured the boys would get annoying, so we left. Is Harry up?" Ginny asked.
"Not when I came down. He threw up three times last night, so I have a feeling he will be pretty hungover," Hermione informed her as she paid the owl for the Prophet as it landed, then took off again, "Damnit, Rita!"
"What did she do now?" Ginny asked as she glanced at the headline, "Potter is escorted by a mysterious fairy princess? Who is this beauty, and is she from a foreign land? Seriously? Well, at least it looks like she didn't realize Harry was drunk."
Hermione looked up as she saw Harry walk through the Great Hall doors, "Speaking of the devil."
Harry plopped beside Ginny and groaned as he laid his head on the table, "Did I fall off my broomstick last night? Because it feels that way."
Ginny and Hermione laughed, "Do you remember anything from last night?" Hermione asked him.
"After Ron got there, everything got fuzzy. Did I do something stupid?" Harry asked wide-eyed.
"Well, you did feel Ron's face telling him he had a stupid face, but he liked it because it looked like Ginny's. Other than throwing up multiple times, no," Hermione informed him.
"I threw up? No wonder my throat hurts," Harry said, drinking pumpkin juice, "The stairs were moving this morning, so I guess some of our work paid off. Or maybe I was just that hungover and confused."
"No, the stairs were, in fact, moving," Hermione told him as she set the paper down as another owl arrived.
Ginny frowned when she saw the writing, "Ron is writing you? You just saw him last night."
Hermione sighed, "I have to get ready to go to Hogs Head to call my Mum and Dad. See you guys later."
Ginny frowned as Hermione left, "Do you think they will be okay?"
Harry grabbed some toast, "It's Hermione and Ron; they fight, then they get over it. They'll be fine."
a/n: Thank you to the new followers: lowironhoe, Azrael- The Pacifist, Alkinis and all the other readers. I will admit I thought of not posting this story any longer on here because I hate how FFN is formatting stories and AO3 has more flexibility. Enchanted is over there as well, but if you want to continue seeing it on here, please review!