Welcome to Tales of the Brightest Witch Book 3: Prisoner Of Azkaban!

This is my FAVORITE book in the series because of the introductions of Remus Lupin and Sirius Black, some of my favorite HP characters. And of course for the plot twist. Also, the huge third year fight THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN IN THE MOVIE!

Romione shippers, you will start to get even more small, subtle moments in here. There will be a bunch of missing moments in here to tickle your fancy. I may add one movie moment in here that I strongly wished would have been written into the book.

I had a lot of fun writing this book on Ron's POV, but I feel like it's going to be more challenging writing it in Hermione'. To which I say, Imma Gryffindor so challenge accepted.

This chapter will have a lot of letters, mainly from TKC. I will include some letters that Hermione and Harry write to each other, as well as some that Ginny and Hermione write to each other as well. Hope the dates don't get too confusing.

In doing this, I see I messed up with Harry's birthday. So let's just say that the date of the letters mean nothing when it comes to his birthday. It is indeed on the 31st of July. Let's have the letter Harry got from Ron be written in advance as he wrote it while in Egypt.. .

From here until Summer 1994, you will see some lines and phrases from the book Harry Potter and the Prisoner Of Azkaban. Those lines are owned by J.K. Rowling, and in no way am I trying to claim them. They are needed because this is a POV telling of the books, and I will have to use some of the things that Hermione has been told and hears around her.

Enjoy!

Side note: The 3 Ts are Telephone, Talking, and Time-Turner. FFN wouldn't let me make a long title lol.


Chapter 45: The Three Ts

Summer 1993

Dear Hermione,

We haven't gotten a phone installed yet, so until we do, I have no choice but to lift up my hand and write to you. I'm already exhausted and breaking a sweat.

Things are going pretty slow around here. Charlie is coming to visit for a while. Speaking of Charlie, Mum found out about the wand. She told me that she really didn't know what she could do about it, and that I shouldn't have waited to tell her. So, I guess I have to go through the rest of my school days with a broken wand. What the bloody hell am I gonna do about that? I won't be able to pass anything with this ruddy thing doing whatever the hell it wants to do. I'll probably end up hexing myself again. I always have such rotten luck.

Ginny's alright. She seems happy enough, but sometimes she also seems like she doesn't want anything to do with anybody. Today is one of these days actually. She has shut herself up in her room, refusing to speak to anyone. One day, if she lets me, I'm gonna see what's really going on with her.

Have you heard from Harry yet? I'm writing him after I finish your letter. I'm going to see if he can come and stay for the summer. I know he doesn't want to spend his days there when he really doesn't have to. Shit, I'm actually shocked they took him back after the whole rescue fiasco last year. I was hoping that they would make him come live with us.

Well, I'm going to go. Mum's calling me to do shit. Really. I'm not lying in an attempt to stop writing this letter..

Love,

Ron

P.S: Send me some Muggle sweets. You told me you were going to, remember? And not that sugar free shit you eat. I don't need a dentist.

The sun was shining bright, and my legs dangled lazily into the cool water of the pool. It was such a wonderful surprise to come home to this—Mama and Papa had it installed while I was away at Hogwarts. It was perfect, not too big but with enough room for fun: three feet at the shallow end, twelve feet at the deep end, and even a little sitting area. I smiled, wondering if they'd let me invite Harry and Ron over for a swim one day. I could already picture Ron splashing about, and Harry diving smoothly into the deep end.

I held Ron's letter in my hand, reading it for what was probably the third time since it arrived this morning. His handwriting was as messy as ever, but his words made me laugh. I loved the way he could be so unintentionally funny without even trying. I folded the letter carefully and headed back inside, my feet still dripping.

"Mama!" I called as I walked into the kitchen, where she was slicing lemons. The weekends were always special because both my parents were off work. The smell of fresh lemonade filled the room, and I took a deep breath, savoring it.

"Yes, Jea—OH HERMIONE!" she cried, cutting herself off mid-sentence. Her eyes darted to the wet footprints I'd left on the tile floor. "Wipe your feet before coming into the house if you go for a dip!"

"Oh, I'm sorry," I said quickly, rolling my eyes slightly as I turned back outside to grab my towel. "There, better?" I asked when I returned, my legs and feet dry this time.

"Much better," she replied with a playful smirk, her hands on her hips.

"Okay, so," I began, leaning against the counter. "Would it be okay if you took me to the grocery store later? I want to buy some Muggle snacks for Ron."

"Muggle snacks?" she repeated, raising an eyebrow.

"Yeah, Muggle snacks," I said, shrugging. "They don't have the same snacks in the wizarding world as we do here. I promised I'd send him some sweets and things so he could try what we eat."

"Ron..." she said slowly, a knowing look creeping onto her face. "He's the lovely redheaded boy, isn't he?"

"Mum…" I sighed, already feeling my cheeks warm. "Yes, he is. He's my best friend—along with Harry, of course."

"Right," she said, dragging the word out a little too much, her tone teasing. I knew that tone, and it made me squirm. "Well, sure. We can go once your father finishes cutting the Cornwall's lawn, yeah?"

"Thanks, Mum," I said quickly, eager to change the subject. I slipped out of my swimsuit and into a light sundress. I liked how the dress felt—light and breezy. It made me feel delicate in a way my school robes didn't. I flopped onto my bed and unfolded Ron's letter again, grinning at one of his funnier lines.

Not long after, Mama peeked into my room, a mischievous grin on her face as she held out the cordless phone.

"You have a telephone call," she said, her tone almost too casual.

"Me?" I asked, sitting up, confused. "Really?"

"It's one of your wizard friends," she said, her grin widening. "The redheaded one."

"Come off it," I said, sounding rather Ron-like as I grabbed the phone so quickly I nearly dropped it. My face flushed as I pressed it to my had to be joking. Mama chuckled, watching me from my door sill.

"Hello?" I said cautiously, holding the phone up to my ear.

"Hermione!" Ron's voice came through, maybe a bit too enthusiastically. "Ummm...how are you?"

I blinked in disbelief.

"Ron? Oh my goodness, I thought Mum was joking. You got a telephone!"

"Ohhhh, so that's what you call it," Ron replied, sounding sheepish. "Yeah, Dad just brought it home today. I called Harry first, but, er… it didn't go so well."

"Why not?" I asked, already fighting a grin.

"I yelled, thinking I couldn't be heard. Some bloke who sounded dreadful denied Harry even lived there and then hung up."

I couldn't hold back the laugh that bubbled up. "Are you sure it was Harry's house, Ron?"

"Positive. It was—wait." He cut himself off abruptly.

There was some muffled shuffling, and then I heard his voice in the background. "Do you mind?"

"Mind what?" I asked, feeling a twinge of confusion. "Hello?"

"Sorry about that," Ron said suddenly, his voice closer. "Everyone was in my face."

"It's okay," I said lightly. "So I'm guessing it wouldn't be a good idea to call Harry again?"

"I wouldn't. I probably got him in a lot of trouble," he admitted, sounding regretful.

"You should've called me first," I said, shaking my head even though he couldn't see. "I could've helped you properly use it. We could've three-wayed him. That way, we could all talk together."

I noticed Mama was still at my doorway, her expression curious and amused. I gave her a pleading look, silently asking for privacy. She giggled, actually giggled, and stepped away. I closed the door after her, feeling an odd flutter in my stomach. That was the first time I'd ever closed my door like this.

"I didn't call you first because I just wrote you this morning," Ron explained. "By the way, did you get it?"

"I was reading it when you called, actually," I said. "I have Errol resting in my room. Sorry about your wand."

"Don't be!" Ron said quickly. "Dad came in today and said he'd won a contest for 1,000 galleons! We're going on holiday to Egypt next week, and I'm getting my very own wand!"

"Really? That's brilliant, Ron!" I exclaimed, feeling a wave of relief for him. "I was so afraid you'd come back to school with that broken one. You wouldn't even be able to transfigure with it."

"Gee, thanks a lot, Hermione. Love the faith you have in me," Ron said dryly.

"Oh, come on, Ron. How did you expect to do anything properly with a broken wand? Especially with all the new classes we're taking."

"I made it alright last year."

"Yeah, barely."

"Shut up."

"Make me."

"I can hang up this phone."

"You wouldn't," I said quickly.

"Oh, but I would," he replied, and I could practically hear the grin in his voice.

"Okay, fine." I said, laying down on my bed, settling on my stomach as my legs started swinging back and forth without me realizing it. "So, you're going to Egypt? I'm so jealous. You'll learn loads about the pyramids and hieroglyphics and ancient kings and queens. Oh, Ron, I'm so excited for you!"

"This is a holiday, Hermione," Ron groaned. "I don't plan to learn anything."

"I'm going to make sure you do."

"How?"

"I'll find a way. You'll send pictures, won't you?"

"I guess," he said, sounding less enthusiastic.

Mum's voice called up the stairs, reminding me it was time for dinner. I sighed. "I have to go. Mum's calling me for dinner. But maybe I—oh, wait. Do you have a number?"

"That's a very good question," Ron said, sounding stumped. "I'll have to ask Dad. He'll probably have to do some things since we're magically making this phone work. Just write me back after dinner, and I'll answer it on the way to Egypt tomorrow."

"Okay. Well, bye, Ron! Have fun. Say hello to everyone for me!"

"I will. Bye, Hermione," he said, and then the line went dead.

I set the phone down gently, feeling a strange warmth in my chest. I couldn't help but blush. This was the first time I'd ever talked to a friend on the telephone. To make it even more… whatever it was… it had been Ron. It felt nice, being able to talk to him quickly instead of waiting days for an owl post.

I walked to the dining table, trying to focus on dinner, but my thoughts were already on what I'd say in my next letter.


I sat in the sitting room of our house, tapping my foot impatiently on the polished wooden floor. My school books were neatly stacked on the coffee table, and my letter from Professor McGonagall regarding my classes lay open beside them. Mama and Papa were busy fussing over last-minute travel details, their voices drifting in from the hallway as they checked and rechecked their luggage for our upcoming trip to France. I had already packed, of course(twice but my mind was on more important things.

A soft knock on the front door made my heart jump. I hurried to open it and found Professor McGonagall standing there, as severe and composed as always in her emerald-green robes.

"Good evening, Miss Granger," she said, stepping inside with a polite nod.

"Hello, Professor McGonagall!" I greeted her eagerly, trying to keep my voice from squeaking. "Please, come in."

Mama bustled in at that moment, offering tea and biscuits, which Professor McGonagall accepted with a small but polite smile. Papa appeared next, shaking the professor's hand firmly before excusing themselves back to packing to give us some privacy.

I could barely contain my excitement as I led Professor McGonagall to the sofa, sitting down primly and looking at her expectantly. The thick envelope she carried made my stomach twist with anticipation.

"Miss Granger," she began, fixing me with her sharp gaze. "I've reviewed your request to take additional subjects this year."

I straightened up even more, feeling my pulse quicken. "And?"

She sighed softly, placing the envelope on the table. "I must admit, I've rarely seen such... ambition, even among the most dedicated students."

I beamed. "I can handle it, Professor. Really, I've worked out a study schedule already! I'll make sure to manage my time properly."

Professor McGonagall gave me a look that could pierce through steel. "Miss Granger, I have no doubt in your ability or your diligence. However, the workload you are proposing is extensive, even for someone as... meticulous as yourself."

I nodded enthusiastically. "I know it'll be challenging, but I want to learn as much as I possibly can! Arithmancy, Ancient Runes, Muggle Studies—I can't just pick one. They're all important!"

Professor McGonagall's lips twitched in what might have been the ghost of a smile, but she didn't soften. "This isn't just about academics, Miss Granger. It's about responsibility." She reached into the envelope and withdrew a small, delicate hourglass attached to a fine gold chain. The sight of it made my breath catch in my throat.

"This," she said, holding it carefully between her fingers, "is a Time-Turner."

I gasped, my eyes wide with awe. "A Time-Turner..." I whispered.

Professor McGonagall's expression grew stern. "The Ministry of Magic has given special permission for you to use it, but with very strict guidelines. The misuse of this device can have... catastrophic consequences. Do I make myself clear?"

I swallowed hard and nodded, feeling the weight of the responsibility she was placing on my shoulders. "Yes, Professor."

"You must use it only for academic purposes," she continued. "You are not to use it for personal gain, and most importantly, you must never—under any circumstances—allow anyone to know about it. Not even Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley."

I hesitated for just a second. "Not even Harry and Ron?"

Professor McGonagall's eyes softened slightly. "Especially not Harry and Ron."

I sighed. I hated keeping things from them, but I could understand why. They wouldn't mean to misuse it, of course, but Ron could sometimes be a bit immature about things. And Harry had enough trouble as it was.

"I understand," I said firmly. "I won't tell them. I promise."

She nodded approvingly. "Good. I trust you, Miss Granger, but this is a serious matter. I expect you to exercise discretion and caution. If I hear of any misuse, the Time-Turner will be confiscated immediately."

"I'll be careful," I assured her, feeling the gravity of the situation settle over me.

Professor McGonagall handed me the Time-Turner, and I took it carefully, the chain cool and delicate in my hands. My heart swelled with excitement, but I tried to keep my face composed.

"I'll be monitoring your progress closely," she said, giving me a piece of parchment with the directions of proper use before standing. "And if at any point you feel overwhelmed, I expect you to come to me at once."

"Yes, Professor," I said, standing with her.

She gave me one last scrutinizing look before a hint of warmth entered her eyes. "You have an impressive mind, Miss Granger. See that you use it wisely."

I couldn't help but smile proudly. "Thank you, Professor."

With that, she bid farewell to Mama and Papa, who had returned from the den, and left. The moment the door shut behind her, I clutched the Time-Turner tightly, excitement bubbling up inside me.

"Mama, Papa! Can you believe it?" I exclaimed, twirling around the sitting room. "I get to take my extra classes. It's all been arranged!"

Mama gave me an indulgent smile. "Just remember to take care of yourself, Jeanie."

Papa frowned. "And don't overwork yourself, darling. You're only thirteen, after all."

I nodded, though I was already making mental plans. The year ahead was going to be challenging, but I couldn't wait.

After all, I had a Time-Turner. And I was going to use it well.


July 26, 1993

Dear Harry,

Happy birthday!

Look, I'm really sorry about that telephone call. I hope the Muggles didn't give you a hard time. I asked Dad, and he reckons I shouldn't have shouted.

It's amazing here in Egypt. Bill's taken us around all the tombs and you wouldn't believe the curses those old Egyptian wizards put on them. Mum wouldn't let Ginny come in the last one. There were all these mutant skeletons in there, of Muggles who'd broken in and grown extra heads and stuff.

I couldn't believe it when Dad won the Daily Prophet Draw. Seven hundred galleons! Most of its gone on this trip, but they're going to buy me a new wand for next year.

We'll be back about a week before term starts and we'll be going up to London to get my wand and our new books. Any chance of meeting you there?

Don't let the Muggles get you down!

Try and come to London,

Ron

P.S. Percy's Head Boy. He got the letter last week.

Harry, this is a Pocket Sneakoscope. If there's someone untrustworthy around, it's supposed to light up and spin. Bill says it's rubbish sold for wizard tourists and isn't reliable, because it kept lighting up at dinner last night. But he didn't realize Fred and George had put beetles in his soup.

Bye!

Ron


July 26, 1993

Dear Hermione,

Okay, okay, here are your pictures that you have been nagging me about. How was France? Are you still there? Ginny wanted me to ask you if you could get her a beret.

We have one more week to go into Egypt, and I find myself wanting to leave right now. Being with Bill and Charlie is nice, but the twins are driving me mental.

We finally visited the tomb of that kid king Tutankhamen you told me about. Most of the tomb had been altered for tourists, but Bill took us into this room that he had been trying to break a curse in.

It has all these treasures that he told us we couldn't touch. There was an imploding curse on them. Any person that touched one of the treasures, would cause the tomb to fall into itself.

Of course, Fred didn't listen and touched some statue, and we almost didn't make it out alive. I thought Bill was going to hex him, as mad as he was. We didn't tell Mum. Bill had ripped into him enough.

I was feeling generous and got you a present. It's a book on hieroglyphics and translating them. But you can't read it until you're done with your holiday in France. NO LEARNING SHIT HERMIONE!

Can your parents drop you off at the Leaky the week before term? That's where we will be staying. We can go get our supplies together, plus, I have a surprise for you.

I gotta go. Mum's fixing dinner. Let me know how you like the book!

Love,

Ron.

P.S. Percy's Head Boy. He got the letter last week. That's going to make our year so much better. I'm really looking forward to it.

That was sarcasm in case you didn't catch on.


July 29, 1993

Dear Ginny,

I hope this letter finds you well and enjoying your summer in Egypt. I can't imagine how fascinating it must be to see all those ancient tombs and pyramids in real life. I've read so much about them, but to actually be there! You must tell me everything when you get back—especially if you've spotted any real treasure or curses (not that I wish any bad luck on you, of course).

I've just returned from France with my parents, and it was simply lovely. We stayed in Paris for a few days, and I couldn't get enough of the Eiffel Tower, especially at night when it sparkles like magic. The food was divine—croissants in the morning, escargot (which I bravely tried, and it wasn't as bad as it sounds), and crepes filled with all sorts of delicious things. We also visited the Louvre, and I saw the Mona Lisa! I never realized how much history could be packed into one painting.

I found a little market in Montmartre with the cutest hats and thought of you instantly. I picked out a green beret, and I hope you like it. I thought the color would suit you perfectly, especially with your hair. It felt very French and sophisticated, and I can imagine you wearing it around the Burrow, looking très chic.

I also wanted to tell you how proud I am of you, Ginny. After everything you went through this past year, you've shown such incredible strength and bravery. I know it wasn't easy, and I can't even begin to imagine how you must have felt at times. But you're not alone—you've got your family, and you've got us. Harry, Ron, and I all care about you so much. You're like the little sister I never had (but always secretly wanted), and I just want you to know you can always talk to me about anything, even if it seems silly or too small to mention.

Remember, you're so much stronger than you think, and you're surrounded by people who love you. And if you ever feel down, just put on the beret and imagine yourself strolling through Paris with a baguette under your arm and not a care in the world. It works wonders!

Take care, Ginny, and enjoy the rest of your trip. I can't wait to hear all about it.

With love,

Hermione


July 29, 1993

Dear Harry,

Happy Birthday! I hope you've had a wonderful day and that your aunt, uncle, and cousin haven't made it completely miserable for you. Did you get the broomstick servicing kit I sent you? I thought you'd like it—it has everything you'll need to keep your Nimbus 2000 in top condition. I remember you mentioning it was starting to look a bit overworked after last term, so hopefully, this will help!

I've been in France with my parents for the past two weeks, and it's been absolutely incredible. The sights here are just breathtaking. We spent a whole day at the Eiffel Tower—Mum made us take the stairs halfway up because she said it was "more authentic." My legs were sore for two days, but the view was completely worth it. We've also visited the Louvre, and Harry, it's enormous! I think it would take a week just to walk through the whole thing. I saw the Mona Lisa, though, and I was a bit surprised by how small it was. Still, it's amazing to think how old it is.

The food has been fantastic, though I don't think Ron would enjoy it as much. Lots of snails and frog legs on menus—not that I've been brave enough to try them. Mum insists we eat as much French bread as we can while we're here, and I have to say, their croissants are heavenly. Dad keeps laughing at how much butter everything has.

I've also been practicing my French! I'm starting to pick up little phrases, though I don't think I'll ever have the confidence to use them in conversation. The French are so fast when they speak! I keep trying to tell myself that it's just like learning a new spell—practice makes perfect—but it's still intimidating.

I miss you and Ron, though. It's strange not having you both around to keep me company. Ron and I have been talking on the phone, and he told me about the fiasco he had when he tried to call you. I couldn't stop laughing when he told me about your Uncle Vernon yelling at him. He's a telephone expert now, but I hope he didn't cause you too much trouble with that call.

Anyway, I'll be back soon, and I'm really looking forward to seeing you both again. I can't wait to hear about what you've been up to (hopefully nothing dangerous, though knowing you, I won't hold my breath). I'll try to bring back something from France for both of you—maybe some chocolate? It's so much better here than at home.

Take care of yourself, Harry, and enjoy the rest of your summer. Just think—Hogwarts is right around the corner, and we'll all be back together again soon.

Yours,

Hermione

P.S. Don't forget to use the polishing cloth in the kit—it's enchanted to make your broom fly faster after it's been cleaned! Just thought you'd like to know.


July 31, 1993

Dear Ron,

I'm so glad to have heard from you! Thanks for the Pocket Sneakoscope, although I had to practically bury it under my clothes. It's always going off. Maybe because I live with Dudley.

You, Hermione, and Hagrid really made my birthday. Even though Hagrid sent me some killer book. It almost bit my fucking hand off! I don't know what he was thinking.

Yeah, the phone fiasco didn't go over well. I actually heard the entire thing, and Uncle Vernon was seething. It's okay. I think he would have been that way even if you would have whispered. I'm actually glad it was you and not Hermione. He would have made the poor girl cry.

Speaking of Hermione, did you hear she's in France for her holiday? I wish I could go to France. Unfortunately, I'm stuck with the fucking Dursleys who hates my guts and treats me like I'm their servant. If you weren't on holiday, I would ask if you could see if Mrs. Weasley would let me come stay with you guys. Then again, they wouldn't let me go. I don't understand it. How could people that hate me so much not let me out of their hair during the holiday?

Anyways, just wanted to thank you for my gift. I really appreciate it. And I can't wait to see you guys. Whenever that is.

Bye git,

Harry.

P.S. Percy made Head Boy? There goes our third year.


August 1st, 1993

Dear Hermione,

Thanks for the letter, and yeah, the broomstick servicing kit is great. It's honestly the best thing I've gotten all summer, though that's not exactly a high bar—Aunt Petunia gave me a sock for my birthday last year, so, you know, low expectations. But seriously, the kit is brilliant, and I've already used it. The Nimbus looks almost new, so thanks for thinking of that.

France sounds...well, very you. Climbing the Eiffel Tower and sore legs for the "authentic experience"? That has Granger written all over it. I'm glad you're having a good time, though I can't imagine Ron dealing with snails and frog legs. If you bring him back a croissant, maybe don't tell him about the butter—he'll just eat it without asking questions.

Also, I really hope you don't bring me back chocolate. I've seen what French chocolate does to Dudley—he had some once, and let's just say Aunt Petunia wasn't happy with the new holes in the sofa. But seriously, don't go overboard. You've probably already spent too much money on that broom kit.

Speaking of Ron, I'm still not sure how he managed to turn a simple phone call into a disaster. Uncle Vernon's face was purple for about an hour after. I think he's still mad about it, so tell Ron thanks for that. I'll make sure to yell into his ear the next time I'm near a telephone.

Anyway, don't worry about me—nothing dangerous happening here, unless you count Dudley's fists. I've gotten pretty good at dodging, though, so no broken bones this summer. Can't wait to get back to Hogwarts. At least there I only have to deal with Malfoy, and even he's better than the Dursleys.

See you soon, Hermione, and enjoy the rest of your holiday. Try not to overthink your French lessons—pretty sure they don't dock house points for bad grammar.

Cheers,

Harry

P.S. Polishing cloth works like a charm—literally. You're the best.


August 4, 1993

Dear Ron,

My mum and dad said I couldn't stay the week, but I can come on the day before term to shop and incan stay with you then. I practically begged them. I don't understand why they wouldn't let me. I'm going to be 14 soon after all.

Thank you so much for the book! What you sent me, along with what I learned in France is going into my essay for Professor Binns. Speaking of that, have you started on your essay yet, Ronald? I bet you haven't. I bet you haven't done a lick of your summer homework at all. That's not good, Ron. You'll be so far behind when we get to school.

Thanks for the pictures also. My parents went absolutely bonkers over them. Muggles don't have moving photos, so they thought it was extraordinary . They even hung one of them up in our hallway. Don't know how they will explain it to the neighbors when they visit though.

I hope that Ginny likes the beret I sent her. I figured green would be best for her red hair. And I hope you enjoy the sweets I sent. Mum almost didn't buy them, but I explained that in the wizarding world, there are spells to protect your teeth as well as fix them. Which got me into a huge debate over fixing my own.

I've got to go. Write back if you can. If not, I'll see you the day before term!

Love from,

Hermione

P.S: Don't worry about Percy being Head Boy. I'm sure you'll be fine. I'm not planning on getting in any trouble (that should include the two of you) this year, so you shouldn't have any problems with him at all. I would imagine the twins would be the ones in the most.