Endings and Beginnings by Eternal Fire

Rating: R
Genres: Romance, Action & Adventure
Relationships: Harry & Hermione
Book: Harry & Hermione, Books 1 - 4
Published: 25/01/2003
Last Updated: 25/01/2003
Status: Completed

Complete!!! When Harry begins having nightmares, it sparks a whole adventure into who he truly
is, and a new love will enter his life. Will contain lemon chapters.




1. Nightmare Curse
------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Endings and Beginnings

‘No, stay back!’

‘What do you plan to do? You know that you can’t stop me; now, give me the child!’

‘Never Voldomort, I won’t let you have him!’

‘Give me the boy, or die, Lily!’

‘Kill me then.’

‘Very well!’

‘I love you, Harry; I’m sorry.’

“NOOOOOO!!!” Harry shot up out of the bed. He was covered in a cold sweat, and his body was
trembling.

“The same dream again.” Harry had been having nightmares every night for almost the last month.
It was always the same dream – the night his parents were murdered.

Harry climbed out of bed and went to his dresser. He looked himself in the mirror and wiped his
brow.

“Get a hold of yourself, Potter, act like a man!” He was now in his sixth year at Hogwarts, and
he refused to act like a crybaby. He had to be strong – no matter what. Harry mentally smacked
himself and took a deep breath. Checking his watch, he saw that he still had a few hours left
before classes began.

“What’s happening to me? Why do I keep remembering the same thing over and over again?” Harry
brushed his hair back and looked at his scar. He thought about Voldomort, but his scar had not
being acting up for several months now.

“Maybe I’m just being paranoid,” Harry said to himself. With a long sigh, he collapsed back into
his bed and was asleep before his head hit the pillow.

“Harry, wake up, c’mon!” Ron Weasley nearly shouted.

“Hn. Leave me alone,” Harry groaned – his face buried in his pillow.

“No, you’re gonna be late!”

“I said leave me be!”

Ron groaned in defeat. When Harry Potter didn’t want to get up, it was impossible to change his
mind. Nobody could wake him up – with one exception.

“That’s it!” Ron dashed out of their room and down to the commons.

Hermione Granger was just about to head for her advanced transfiguration class when Ron burst
into the room.

“Hermione, thank God I found you!” he said out of breath.

“Ron, what’s wrong?”

“I need your help, Herm. It’s Harry…”

“What about him?” Hermione asked worriedly. She jumped at the thought of Harry being in
trouble.

“Well…he’s got a severe case of ‘lazy-bone’ syndrome this morning. He won’t listen to me so I
was hoping…maybe you could get him up.” Hermione crossed her arms in annoyance.

“What am I…his personal alarm clock?”

“No, but he’ll listen you. If you tell him to get up, I’m sure he’ll do it.”

“Fine, but he better not make me late!”

Hermione stomped up the stairs and entered Ron and Harry’s room. She was somewhat angry at
having to play nursemaid for Harry, but in a way, she felt kinda good doing this – like she was
there when he needed her. Her anger dwindled as she approached his bed. He was lying on his side;
his face still burrowed halfway into the pillow.

‘He looks so cute like this,’ Hermione said silently. At that point, Harry rolled over, and his
comforter fell off him.

“Oh my…” Hermione clamped her hand over her mouth. Harry lay before her in nothing but his boxer
shorts; he’d removed his sweat-soaked t-shirt the night before.

Hermione was speechless; all she could do was stare. He’d grown into quite a good-looking young
man. Years of quidditch had made his muscles fill out very nicely, and his height had increased to
almost six feet. His eyes had remained the same deep emerald that they’d always been, and Hermione
remembered how weak-kneed those eyes could make her.

“Harry…maybe…someday…” She stopped her train of thought. No, it would never work. Harry Potter
wouldn’t want her; she was a bookworm – not like some of the flirts that hung on his every
word.

“No!” His sudden outburst caught her attention. Harry’s body contorted, and he clenched his
fists in his sleep.

“No, not her, please, don’t hurt her…please, not Hermione!”

The young woman’s eyes widened; he was having a dream about her. But from the looks of it, it
was more like a nightmare. Embarrassment aside, she knelt by his bedside and took his clenched fist
in her hand.

“Harry, wake up, it’s only a dream, please, it’s me, Hermione.” At the mention of her name,
Harry’s eyes shot open. Without warning, he reached out and wrapped her in a tight hug. He clutched
her to his chest as if his life depended on it.

“Hermione, thank goodness you’re all right.” Harry was practically panting, and his embrace
tightened.

“Harry, relax, it was only a dream, okay?” Hermione blushed as he pressed her up against his
chest. She had to admit; it felt good to be held in his arms. He was holding her strongly, but she
could still feel the underlying tenderness that he always showed her.

“A dream, are you sure?” Harry asked and looked down at her. His eyes were sick with worry, and
Hermione felt her heart melt. She reached up and brushed some of his hair off his sweaty face.

“I’m sure, Harry, everything’s all right now.” She ran her hand down the side of his face, and a
small smile appeared on his lips.

“I…I’m sorry,” he said softly and released her.

“It’s okay, Harry, we all have nightmares. Now, what do you say you get dressed and let’s get to
class?” Harry finally realized that all he had on were his shorts.

“Oh my gosh!” He turned as red as a tomato, and Hermione giggled at him. Putting a smug smile on
her face, she leaned over and touched his nose with the tip of her finger.

“Don’t be embarrassed, I think you look cute like this!” Harry’s blush increased ten-fold, and
he turned away shyly.

“Hermione…” She smiled at him. He never did have a way with girls – her being the exception.

“Harry, it’s okay, I won’t say anything all right. Now, let’s get going before McGonagall gives
up both detention for being late.”

Harry and Hermione raced in just as Professor McGonagall stood up from her desk. She looked at
the two of them with a stern glare but didn’t say anything. The two decided not to ask whether they
were late or not and merely sat down. Ron looked over at Hermione and grinned slightly; she just
rolled her eyes and opened her book.

“Ron, you owe me one!” Hermione stated as she plopped down next to Harry at the lunch table. The
red-haired young man just grinned at her.

“Oh c’mon, Herm, don’t be mad; I told you that you could do it.”

“Do what?” Harry asked as he reached for a slice of ham. The grin on Ron’s face widened.

“I just know that Hermione’s the only person that can wake you up!”

“That’s not true!” Harry gasped blushing slightly. “I was tired this morning, okay?” He looked
down at his hands and set his fork down.

“Harry, are you all right?” Hermione asked and put hand on his shoulder.

“I…I…I don’t know…I’ve been having nightmares every night for the last few weeks, and I guess
the loss of sleep is finally catching with me.” As proof, Harry let out a soft yawn.

“Everyone has nightmares, Harry,” Ron stated.

“Yeah, but do they have the same one night after night?”

“Do you remember any of it?” Hermione asked softly. Harry turned towards her, and she
immediately regretted asking. His eyes held a look of pure agony, and she clutched his hand in her
own.

“Yeah, I remember it…mostly. It’s the night my parent’s were killed.” Now, Hermione really
regretted asking him. She knew how much it hurt Harry to remember what happened to his parents.

“I’m sorry, Harry.” He squeezed her hand gently and shook his head.

“It’s okay. I’ve learned to deal with it by now.”

Harry suddenly grabbed his head and howled in pain. His head whipped back so hard that his neck
nearly broke.

“Harry!” Hermione and Ron gasped at the same time. Harry’s body jolted so hard that he fell onto
the floor. He began convulsing on the floor screaming ‘NO…NO…NO…’ over and over again. By now,
Professor Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall had noticed what happened and rushed over to check on
him.

Hermione was at Harry’s side trying to calm him down.

“Harry, please, it’s not real. Please, tell me what’s wrong!” She was scared out of her mind as
she watched his body contort violently.

“Everyone, out of the way!” Dumbledore ordered as he stepped through the mass of students now
surrounding Harry. He saw the young man seizing in pain and quickly knelt down by his side.

“Professor, please, help him!” Hermione begged as tears formed in her eyes. Dumbledore placed
his hand on Harry’s forehead and whispered ‘Tranquilos’; his body went limp and passed out.

“There, that will keep him calm for now. Ouch!” Dumbledore drew his hand back as something
burned him. Lifting the hair off Harry’s forehead, he saw something that made his stomach turn.

“His scar!” Ron gasped. Harry’s scar was burning bright red, and the boy’s head snapped from
side to side.

“No, stop…stop please…don’t…Voldomort…” At the mention of the dark wizard’s name, Dumbledore
knew what was going on.

“Hermione, Ron, move back now!” Dumbledore placed his hands on Harry’s head. “Purificas
Mentales!” Harry’s body slowly stopped twitching, and his head came to a stop on its right
side.

“He’ll be all right for now,” Dumbledore said softly.

“What happened to him?” Hermione nearly demanded as she cradled Harry’s head in her hands. The
older man smiled at her loyalty.

“Harry’s been given a Nightmare Curse.”

“A nightmare curse?”

“Yes, Hermione, a nightmare curse is one of the worst. It searches a person’s mind for their
darkest memory or their deepest fear and turns it into an endless string of nightmares.”

“Can it be stopped?” the young woman asked. Dumbledore held up his hand.

“One thing at a time, Miss Granger. Now, if you would Mr. Weasley, help me carry Harry to the
infirmary he needs to rest.” He turned towards the rest of the student body.

“Everyone, please, return to your classrooms.” The students dispersed slowly, many of them
casting sideward glances back towards where Harry Potter lay.

“Professor Dumbledore, please, let me come with him?” Hermione asked pleadingly, while stroking
Harry’s dark hair.

“Of course, Harry needs his friends right now.”

Hermione looked up to see Professor McGonagall behind her. She was supposed to present a
transfiguration project to McGonagall this afternoon, but with Harry the way he was, she was
certain that her concentration wouldn’t be anywhere near perfect.

“Um, Professor McGonagall, I know that I have a project due this afternoon, but I…” Hermione
couldn’t finish her statement. She didn’t even know why she asked; McGonagall was as strict as they
came; she didn’t make exceptions.

“We’ll reschedule your presentation, Miss Granger.” Hermione’s head snapped up.

“Are you serious, ma’am?” She almost thought she saw a smile cross the old woman’s face.

“Just don’t get any ideas, I expect you to be perfect with the extra time that you’re
receiving.”



“Yes ma’am!” Hermione said happily. In the meantime, Ron had lifted Harry up and swung him over
his shoulder. He carried his prone friend out of the Great Hall and down to the medical wing;
Hermione was not more than half a step behind him.

“Professor Dumbledore?”

“What is it, Professor McGonagall?”

“You saw what Harry’s scar was doing. ‘He’ll’ be coming soon.”

“Yes, I know, but there’s nothing than can be done about that.”

“Albus, perhaps, it’s time that you told the boy.” Dumbledore turned towards his colleague with
a stern look, but his eyes softened.

“Yes Minerva, I suppose you’re right. It’s time that Harry understands what’s happening to
him.”



2. Loving Care
--------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Harry woke up several hours later. His head felt like a game of quidditch was being played
inside it. His ears were ringing, but he could make out a faint tune. Someone was humming. It hurt
too much to open his eyes so he just listened.

The humming continued, and Harry felt a soft hand gently brush his hair. It wasn’t just a touch
– more like a caress. Harry knew that touch; it could only belong to one person –Hermione.

‘I never knew she could sing.’ Forcing his eyes open, he turned to see her by his bedside. Her
face lit up at seeing him.

“Harry!” she said happily and dove off her chair into his arms. “You’re all right!”

“Yeah, I’m okay. Man, if this is what a hangover feels like, remind me never to drink!” Harry
groaned and rubbed his head.

“Here, let me.” Hermione leaned over him and put her hands on the side of his face. She put her
index and middle finger together and placed them both on his temples.

“What are you?”

“Trust me,” Hermione said with a smile. Harry closed his eyes. Trust her? How could he not trust
her? She was his best friend. Hermione began rubbing his temples, and Harry let out a very long but
gratifying sigh of relief.

“God Herm, you’re the best!” She giggled softly and continued her rubbing. Within five minutes,
all the tension in Harry’s body had left him. Hermione went to remove her hands only to have
Harry’s clasp them tightly.

“Anybody ever tell you that you have magical hands?” he teased.

“Well, I am studying to be a witch; I hope that I’d have magical hands,” Hermione countered.

“This magic has nothing to do with spells or potions; it’s your own personal magic.” She blushed
slightly at his indirect compliment. Hermione looked down into his deep, emerald eyes, and Harry’s
arms came up around her.

“I was worried about you, Harry. When I saw you cry out in pain, I felt my heart break! I…I
just…” Hermione lost her voice as it became laden with emotion.

“Shh,” Harry said soothingly and pulled her down. He put her head on his chest and stroked her
long, curly hair. “Don’t worry, Hermione, it’s all right; I’m still here.” She realized that he was
right and let herself listen to his strong heartbeat as she rested in his embrace.

“Thank you, Hermione.” She raised her head up to look at him and gave him a bright smile.

“Hey, that’s what friends are for.” Harry gazed up into her soft, brown eyes; his hand came up
and cupped her cheek.

“You’re more than just my friend, Hermione.” His statement made her heartbeat triple, and her
palms began to sweat. Could it be true? Did he…did he really…like her?

“I…I am?” she stuttered. Harry nodded and pulled her down until her forehead was touching
his.

“You’re my girl.” Now, to some people, that comment may have seemed shallow, but to Hermione
Granger, there had never been a truer statement. Her heart pounded against her chest at his
admission. Hermione smiled brightly and gazed down at him tenderly.

“I’ll always be your girl, Harry.” He flushed when he realized that she understood.

“Hermione, I…”

“Shh,” she silenced him with a gentle touch to his lips. Turning her chin up, Hermione allowed
her lips to brush his.

A thousand voices screamed inside Harry’s head – ‘You can’t do this! You’ll only end up hurting
her! Voldomort will use her against you!’ – They all screamed at Harry to stop this. But in the
midst of all of this, his heart stood firm. It simply said – ‘You need her, Harry, and she needs
you. You’ve both waited long enough.’

Hermione was beginning to fear that Harry didn’t want this. He hadn’t rejected her kiss, but he
hadn’t exactly being active. Suddenly, his arms came up around her, and he pulled her tight against
him.

“Hermione…” Harry whispered as he buried his face in her hair. He kissed her cheek and breathed
softly in her ear. “…I don’t ever want to lose you.”

Harry cupped her face in his hands and brought her up until their eyes met. He could read
countless emotions in her chocolate pools – compassion, tenderness, loyalty, happiness,
apprehension, anticipation, and love. Yes, he could read the love in her eyes. Harry had never seen
her look like this before, and he hoped that she would never show this face to anyone but him.

“Harry, I don’t ever want you to leave me.” The words just slipped out, and Hermione felt
slightly ashamed, but Harry only smiled at her.

“My beautiful Hermione…” The phrase rolled off Harry’s tongue like a romantic sonnet.

Hermione blushed to the roots of her hair, and she turned away shyly. No one had ever called her
beautiful before; she was always the bookworm of the group; the one that nobody wanted to talk to.
She’d never had a boyfriend before; no one wanted her. And here was Harry Potter – the guy who any
girl in Hogwarts would kill for to have was telling her that she was beautiful.

“Hermione…” He spoke her name softly this time and turned her back to face him. Harry could feel
his strength fading, but he refused to pass out.

“Hermione…I love you.” And his head fell back onto his pillow.

She wanted to jump up and do cartwheels across the room. He…he loved her; he actually loved her.
He loved her – Hermione – the bookworm, annoying study partner, and loyal friend. And she loved him
– Harry Potter – not the boy who survived Voldomort, but the person that he truly was. Harry was a
kind, gentle young man who took nothing for granted. He was loyal to his friends to the point of
death, and most of all, he never degraded anybody because they were different.

“Harry…” she whispered and caressed his face. His eyes opened lazily, but his arms remained down
at his sides.

“I love you too.” His eyes burst open in pure happiness, and he cracked a full smile at her. He
wanted to sit up and hold her, but his body wouldn’t cooperate.

“I’m sorry, Hermione, I want to take you in my arms and kiss you so bad, but I’m out of it right
now,” Harry said dejectedly.

“Not a problem.” She bent down and placed a whisper of a kiss on his lips.

Harry pushed up, and his mouth covered hers. For only their second kiss, it was a doozy. The two
teenagers felt ready to explode. Harry couldn’t do very much anymore, but he clutched the folds of
Hermione’s robes in his hands and tugged, wanting her closer.

“Ahem!”

The two managed to peel off one another to find none other than Dumbledore standing there with
an amused smirk on his face. Harry and Hermione almost turned purple from blushing so deeply, and
Hermione backed away from his bedside.

“Well Harry, I was going to ask if you were feeling better, but I see that Miss Granger has
answered my question for me,” Dumbledore chuckled.

Harry looked back and forth between his mentor and his new girlfriend.

“Professor, I’m sorry, that wasn’t appropriate,” Hermione interjected nervously.

“She’s right, sir, it won’t happen again.”

“Relax, you two, I’m not angry. Just try and keep the ‘making out’ as you call it to a minimum.
Other than that, I have no objections.” Not even the sun could have outshone the light in
Hermione’s eyes.

“Sir, thank you!” they both said at the same time. Dumbledore coughed and changed the
subject.

“Now then, back to business, Harry…when you’re strong enough, I want to see you in my office;
there is something that I must tell you.”

“Yes sir, I will be there this afternoon. That is, if Madam Pomfrey let’s me out by then.”

“I heard that, Mr. Potter!” Madam Pomfrey appeared behind Dumbledore and glared at Harry
slightly.

“Well then, I shall leave you to her ‘tender’ care then.” Dumbledore took his leave trying hard
not to grin.

“I better get going too,” Hermione piped up.

“Wait a minute!” Harry gasped, “You’re leaving me all alone!” She gave him an evil smile.

“You’re not alone; I’m sure Madam Pomfrey will take good care of you.”

“Oh brother,” Harry groaned. Hermione bent down and whispered in his ear.

“Don’t worry, if she hurts you, that just means that I have to nurse you back to health myself,”
she teased. He smiled brightly at that idea.

“Don’t be too long, okay?” His tone was serious, and Hermione could see that he really hated
letting her go. Especially after what they’d just admitted to one another.

“Relax Harry, I need to pick up our homework; besides, I gotta tell Ron that you’re okay. He’s
probably pulling his hair out in Snape’s Potions class right now.”

Hermione wanted to kiss him goodbye, but she couldn’t with Madam Pomfrey right behind her. So,
she gave him a quick peck on the cheek and told him she’d be back. Harry said goodbye and settled
back on the bed.

“Now then, Mr. Potter, let’s see how you’re doing shall we? I believe that we’ll do a complete
medical work-up just to be sure.”

“What?” Madam Pomfrey smiled evilly at his question, and Harry gulped as he wondered just what
horrors she had in store for him.



3. The Whole Truth
------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Thanks to some very good luck, Harry got out of the medical wing without a scratch. Madam
Pomfrey had poked and prodded him more times than he’d done when dissecting plants in Herbology. He
really wanted to see Hermione again. His mind swarmed with images of her leaning over him – her
soft lips against his.

‘Jeez Potter, you’ve got it bad!’ he said to himself. As much as he wanted to find his
girlfriend…girlfriend…now, that sounded weird, Harry knew that Professor Dumbledore needed to see
him.

Harry approached the gargoyle statue and made sure the corridor was clear.

“Lemon drop.” The gargoyle slid out of the way, revealing a dimly lit passage way.

Harry walked up the small staircase and into the brightly lit office. He was always captivated
by Dumbledore’s office no matter how many times he was here. A soft squawk drew his attention, and
he saw Fawkes, Dumbledore’s pet phoenix, resting on her perch by the window. Dumbledore himself was
sitting at his desk, apparently finishing some type of letter.

“You wanted to see me, sir?” Harry asked as he approached the large mahogany desk. Dumbledore
put down his quill and pushed his glasses up on his nose.

“Yes Harry, there is something that I wish to discuss with you; it concerns what happened to you
the night that your parents were killed.”

“But Professor, I thought you already told me everything.” Dumbledore stood up from his chair
and took a deep breath.

“Harry, you know that Voldomort tried to use the killing curse on you, just like he did your
parents, but it backfired. Do you know why?”

“No sir, no one does.” Harry was rather confused. True, he thought about it many times – painful
as it was. Why had Voldomort not been able to kill him?

“Harry…” Dumbledore let out another long sigh, and an anxious expression fell over his face.
“…that’s not true, there is someone who knows why – me.”

Harry Potter sat in stunned silence. Not much surprised him these days, but what he’d just heard
was practically insane. Dumbledore…Dumbledore knew why Voldomort hadn’t killed him. Why hadn’t he
told Harry sooner?

“Why wasn’t I told?” Harry spat out. He hadn’t meant to sound disrespectful, but he was very
upset.

“Harry, it was for your own good. I was hoping that I wouldn’t ever have to tell you, but once I
saw you inflicted with a Nightmare Curse, I knew…I knew that Voldomort was going to come back for
you. He wants…no, he needs you dead before your eighteenth birthday.”

“Why my eighteenth birthday?”

“Because once you turn eighteen, Harry, you’ll have reached maturity, and Voldomort will never
be able to destroy you.” Now, he really had Harry confused.

“But Professor, that doesn’t make any sense.”

“I suppose not, Harry; I suggest that I start at the beginning.”

“Harry, after you were born, your parents invited me to your christening. Of course, I came, but
I also brought along a friend. At the time, I had another phoenix for a friend – not Fawkes. It was
Fawkes’ mother. Her name was Gemstar, but I always called her Gem for short.”

“What are you trying to say?” Harry asked, getting even more confused.

“I’m getting to it, Harry. I was beside your parents, and she was on my shoulder. After your
christening was finished, something very odd happened. Gem flew off my shoulder and hovered
directly over your head. She bent down and pressed her beak against your forehead. After she did
that, your eyes lit up with a bright fire; it looked like what happens to Fawkes on her burning
day. Do remember…the burst of flames and then a drastic change?”

“Yes, I remember, Professor, but why did your phoenix do that? What was she trying to do?”

“For a few seconds, both hers and your eyes were lit up with the same fire. She gave you a gift,
Harry – the spirit of a phoenix. You see, the phoenix is known as the bird that rose from the ashes
more beautiful than it ever was before. Gemstar blessed you with that spirit; she gave you the
strength and power that a phoenix has.”

“But I’m a human, how could she…”

“Honestly Harry, I don’t really know. Your parents asked me what Gem had done, but I truly did
not know. After a few seconds the fire went out, and she returned to my shoulder. You weren’t
effected in any way so your parents just left well enough alone.”

“So, I’m carrying a phoenix inside me?” Harry asked in astonishment.

“Not a real phoenix – merely its spirit. A phoenix is a very magical creature as you know, and
what Gemstar gave you is one of the reasons why your wizard potential is so incredible.”

“But I still don’t understand how this deals with me surviving Voldomort.”

“As I understand it, the blessing of a phoenix must be triggered by something; the power will
only respond in a time of great need. You see, Harry, a phoenix only uses it power when others are
suffering – not for selfish ambitions. That is why it is one of the purest creatures in existence.
When your mother sacrificed herself for you, she triggered the power residing within your spirit.
That is what protected you and what drained Voldomort of his power.”

“But Voldomort took my blood to resurrect himself so doesn’t that mean that he was given part of
this ‘special’ power as well?” Harry asked.

He could remember it like it was yesterday. At the TriWizard Tournament during his fourth year,
he and Cedric Diggory both won, but the trophy had been turned into a portkey, which had taken him
right into Voldomort’s clutches. Voldomort had one of his servants, Wormtail, take some of Harry’s
blood and use it to revive the dark wizard. Harry had barely escaped Voldomort and his hoard of
Death Eaters, but Cedric had been killed in the process.

“No Harry, remember what I said, the power of a phoenix can only be given to someone with a pure
heart. Voldomort is the exact opposite of what the phoenix embodies.”

“But Professor Dumbledore, if that is true, then why did you say that he would need to kill me
before my eighteenth birthday?”

“Because Harry, when a phoenix comes of age, its power is at its zenith. If you recall how
Fawkes looked before burning day, she wasn’t the best thing in the world to look at.” Dumbledore
chuckled under his breath, and Fawkes cocked her head trying to understand what her master was
finding so funny.

“So what does that mean?”

“Let me ask you something instead, Harry. Have you had any difficulty learning new magic
lately?” His question made Harry gasp in surprise.

“Well…actually no, I just sort of ‘got it’ right away.”

“Your power is growing quickly, Harry, because your time is approaching. However, it also means
that Voldomort will be coming for you soon.”

“I figured as much, but does he know? I mean, about the phoenix and everything?”

“No, he does not; he merely believes that your mother’s love protected you from his dark magic,
and he is technically right. The power that Gemstar gave you merely amplified that protection.”

“So how do you know that Voldomort is coming for me?” Harry was getting anxious. If Voldomort
was coming back, he needed to be ready.

“Since the TriWizard Tournament, I knew it was only a matter of time before Voldomort made his
move. He has been spending the last few years regaining his former strength and gathering
followers. Cornelius Fudge and the Ministry of Magic refuse to believe that Voldomort has come
back, or that he is planning an attack against us.”

“Listen carefully Harry, Voldomort won’t just attack us himself; he needs an army of followers
to do it. Do you remember that talk we had so long ago?”

Harry strained his brain to remember what Dumbledore had said to him after the tournament. For
the last three years, he and several others had been preparing for Voldomort’s return. He had sent
Hagrid out to try and convince other giants like himself to join with Dumbledore and fight
Voldomort.

The Ministry of Magic hated the giants; they felt that they were too dangerous to trust so they
exiled them from the wizard world. Another key for them would be freeing his followers from
Azkaban, the wizard prison, but what really made Harry nervous was the fact that Voldomort could
probably convince the dementors who guarded the prison to join him. Dementors thrived on fear and
panic, and Voldomort could offer them a veritable buffet for their taking.

“Yes, Professor Dumbledore, I remember, but hasn’t the Ministry made any attempts at contacting
the giants or even the dragons for help?”

“No Harry, they’re too stuck on the ‘pureblood’ way of doing things. Only wizards of noble blood
will be given notice by them.”

“But that’s insane, if Voldomort comes back, everyone is in danger.”

“I agree with you, Harry, but Fudge and the others will not listen to me. He’s even threatened
to remove me as headmaster if I go against his wishes.”

“Sir, you can’t be serious!”

“Dead serious, my boy, but I don’t care. Voldomort must be stopped, or the world will be plunged
into darkness and anarchy.”

“The Ministry keeps saying that if Voldomort was alive, he would’ve attacked by now, but I know
that he is merely biding his time, waiting for the perfect moment to catch us off-guard.”
Dumbledore took a deep breath and pushed his glasses back up his nose.

“Harry, I must ask for your help. We need to draw Voldomort out of hiding, and he won’t do that
unless we give him a ripe target.”

“Name it, Professor!” Harry said firmly. Dumbledore smiled at him proudly.

“The one thing that Voldomort always wanted next to you was Hogwarts; he hated this place and
everything it stood for. So, we’re going to give it to him, but there is something that must be
done first.”

Dumbledore spent the next hour explaining his plan to Harry, and the young man’s eyes went wide
when Dumbledore had asked him a very costly favor. Harry had sat there looking at his hands for a
good ten minutes but had agreed to play his part.

“Very well, you may go now. I’ve placed a spell over your mind that should block your Nightmare
Curse for now, but if Voldomort’s power keeps increasing, it will give way.”

“I understand, sir. How soon do we need to implement the plan?”

“At least within the next few months, my guess is a little after Christmas. The spring and early
summer is when everyone is most relaxed; it would be a perfect time for Voldomort to attack. I will
send for you when the time is near, Harry, but until then, I suggest that you continue on as you
normally would, but…” Dumbledore looked at him sternly.

“…You are not to tell anyone about what I’ve said to you today, Harry – not Ronald…not
Hagrid…not even Hermione…no one, understood?”

“Yes sir!”

“Very well, you may go, Harry.”

Harry exited Dumbledore’s office feeling rather noxious. He felt like he’d just sat through six
hours of Potions class. He headed back down towards the Great Hall. It was just about lunchtime,
and Ron and Hermione should be there by now.



4. Winter Ball
--------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

The winter brought snowfall to Hogwarts, and before long, everything in site was covered in
white.

“INCOMING!” Harry ducked as the snowball flew over his head. His eyes looked around for the
culprit, and he found Hermione smiling slyly at him. They had the day off from classes so the
students decided to hold the world’s biggest snowball fight.

“Darn, I missed!” she laughed.

Harry grinned and stalked towards her. Hermione turned and ran, but Harry’s legs were longer,
and he easily caught to her.

“Harry!” Hermione gasped as he tackled her onto the snow. They rolled around like a couple of
little kids, laughing their heads off. Hermione pinned his hands down to the ground and held the
rest of him down with her body weight.

“Jeez Herm, if you wanted to on top, all you had to do was ask?” Harry said with an amused
smirk. His girlfriend blushed, and she flung snow into his face.

“That’s it!” Harry rolled her over and trapped her against the ground. His arms wrapped around
her and pinned her arms to her sides. Hermione giggled softly, and Harry gazed down at her with a
loving expression.

He leaned down towards her, and Hermione closed her eyes as their lips met. Harry released her
arms to cup her face in his hands, and she clutched his robes tightly.

“Hey, you two, cut it out before you melt the snow!” a familiar voice laughed. Harry turned his
head to see Ron standing behind them. He flushed slightly and scrambled to his feet.

“Thanks Harry,” Hermione said as he helped her to her feet. She brushed off the back of her
robes and shook the snow out of her hair.

“Haven’t you ever heard of privacy, Ron?” she asked with a stern look.

“Well Herm, I figured that you’d rather have it be me who finds you two making out than someone
else, especially Malfoy.”

“He does have a point,” Harry conceded.

“Nah, he’s just jealous cause he doesn’t have a date for the Winter Ball on Friday!” Hermione
fired back. This time, it was Ron whose face flushed.

“That…that’s not true! I’m just…deciding on who to ask that’s all!” Harry decided to save his
best friend from further embarrassment and took Hermione’s hand.

“C’mon, let’s go dry off. Besides, we’re supposed to go to Hogsmeade this afternoon.”

“You’re right, Harry, let’s go,” Ron said enthusiastically. Harry waited a few minutes before
turning towards Hermione.

“What’s wrong?” she asked, noting his serious expression.

“Try not to bug Ron too much about his ‘girl’ situation okay; it really embarrasses him.”

“Oh, come on, Harry, he’s just the same as you are around girls…” He looked at her with an
expression that said, ‘Then what are you?’

“…Well, I’m the exception; we’ve been friends for seven years.”

“Yeah, but I just wish that Ron could find someone who’s as wonderful as you are to me,” Harry
said with a tender smile.

“Why, Mr. Potter, was that flattery I just heard?”

“Absolutely, Miss Granger.” She reached up and cupped his cheek in her hand.

“Hmm, thought so, now come here and kiss me.” Harry pulled her close and kissed her softly. It
was sweet and gentle, not nearly as passionate as some of their others had been, but they weren’t
trying to make it like that anyway.

“I almost forgot!” he gasped.

“What is it?” Harry picked up her hands and clutched them tightly.

“Hermione, will you go with me to the Winter Ball on Friday night?” She chewed her lip softly
and pursed her lips.

“Would it be like a date?” she asked with teasing smile.

“Absolutely,” Harry countered.

“Oh, well in that case, the answer is definitely yes.” She smiled at her boyfriend and brushed
some loose snow out of his untamed hair.

“Well…shall we go?” Harry released her reluctantly, but Hermione nodded and followed back
towards the castle.

They both tried to keep their relationship secret from the other students, and it had worked
very well for the several months that they’d been together. Still, Harry would’ve liked to keep his
arm around her as they walked. Instead, he reached down and grasped her small hand in his. Hermione
smiled at his intimate gesture, and they walked hand-in-hand back inside Hogwarts.

Upon returning from Hogsmeade, Harry noticed Hermione carrying a zipped clothing bag over her
right arm.

“Herm, what is that?” She gave him a teasing grin.

“You’ll just have to wait and see!”

“Don’t I at least get a hint?”

“No, it wouldn’t be a surprise if I told you.”

Harry smiled inwardly as he wondered just what kind of surprise Hermione could have for him. He
knew how smart she was, and he didn’t want to think about what type of devious thoughts could be
churning inside her head.

“At least tell me when I’ll know,” he pleaded with her.

“Okay, next Friday night.”

“Hmm, let me guess, did you buy a special dress for the Winter Ball?” Harry asked with a wide
grin.

“That’s for me to know, and you to find out!”

Harry chuckled and untied his packages from the back of his Firebolt. He’d also gotten something
for Hermione, but he was keeping his mouth shut. She’d nag him endlessly until he told her
anyway.

The two separated at the Gryffindor common room and headed up to their separate dormitories.

The following Friday, Harry was in the library trying to finish his homework. Snape had given
them this massive assignment on werewolves, and each student was supposed to come up with a potion
that was supposed to counteract the bite of one. Naturally, Harry, Ron, and Hermione had put their
heads together to try and figure out an answer, but Malfoy had turned them in at every opportunity,
and Snape had threatened to give them a failing grade if they helped one another in any way.

Harry yawned and closed a thick manuscript entitled ‘Ancient Remedies for Any Occasion’. He took
off his glasses and rubbed his eyes. A soft beeping sound drew his attention, and he checked his
watch.

“I’m late!” he gasped. The Winter Ball was supposed to begin at seven, and it was already
five-thirty.

Harry hadn’t realized that he’d been here so long. He quickly piled up his stack of books and
heaved them out the door along with his bag.

Harry was just about to Fat Lady’s portrait when Peeves shot of the wall.

“Harry Potter!” he said with an evil smile.

“Move it, Peeves, I haven’t got time for you today!”

“Such bad manners. You must be taught a lesson.” Peeves materialized a bucket of water out of
thin air and held it over Harry’s head.

“Don’t you dare!” Harry hissed. The poltergeist just laughed sadistically.

Suddenly, a familiar figure appeared out of the wall and pushed the bucket right onto Peeves
head.

“Myrtle!” Harry said with a grateful smile. The young girl smiled in triumph, and Peeves flew
off in the opposite direction, cursing under his breath.

“Thanks, Myrtle, I did not want to have to deal with that annoying ghost today.”

“Your welcome, Harry Potter, we are even now. You helped to clean up my bathroom so now I help
you in return.”

Harry gave her a soft smile. He remembered that in every detail. Malfoy had gotten Ron and him
detention again, and Harry had pleaded with Filch not to make them see Moaning Myrtle.

Naturally, Filch wanted to torture them as much as possible so he’d ordered them to scrub her
bathroom from toilet to mirror. It hadn’t really been that bad of job because Harry and Ron had
gotten to see their old friend, and Myrtle was glad that she had someone to talk to again. The only
drawback was that she was very picky; she ordered them around the whole night, telling them to do a
job over and over again until it was done right.

The next day Hermione had joked that the two of them could have passed for plumbers because
their skin was still wrinkled from all the water, and they both smelled like Lysol.

“I need to go now, Myrtle, but I’ll try to see again soon ‘kay?”

“Okay, but just remember this time. Last time, you said the same thing, and you didn’t come see
me for months.” The shadowy little girl pursed her lips and pouted.

“I’ll remember, and I’ll bring Ron and Hermione with me.” This time, Myrtle’s eyes lit up, and a
small smile crossed her face.

“Okay, goodbye.” She floated back down the hallway and headed back for her bathroom.

Harry burst into his room to see Ron using his wand to tie his tie for him.

“Harry, where have you been?”

“Sorry, I was in the library trying to finish Snape’s assignment.”

“I just gave up on the stupid thing; it kept giving me a headache.”

“So, who are you going with?” Harry asked as he opened his dresser to find his clothes.

“I asked Lavender to go with me.”

“Oh really, and you did ask Hermione what she’s like?” Harry laughed.

“Harry, stop it, we’re going as friends that’s it.”

“Sure Ron, I used to say the same thing about Hermione and I.”

Harry went a pair of khaki pants and a black turtleneck. He had on v-neck green sweater over his
turtleneck and pulled on his dress robes to finish his outfit.

Ron had picked out a pair of black dress slacks, and a maroon, silk shirt. He also bought a new
set of dress robes for this year, instead of having to use the lace-cut ones that his mother had
given in so long ago.

“Come on, Ron, I think that Lavender would love to see you in those lacy robes.”

“Shut-up! I refuse to wear those ever again.”

Harry took off his glasses and took out a small container from a box on his nightstand. He
opened to plastic compartments and drew out two, small, round, transparent contacts. Tilting his
head back, Harry popped them into his eyes and shifted them around until they were in place.
Opening his eyes, he made sure that he could see properly and straightened his hair out so that it
looked at least somewhat normal.

A soft noise at the window drew Harry’s attention.

“Hedwig!” Harry greeted his owl warmly, and she nipped at his fingers playfully. He untied the
note attached to her leg.

Harry,

Wait for me in the common room until after everybody leaves, I want to show you my surprise
alone.

Hermione

Harry grinned wryly and stroked Hedwig’s soft feathers.

“Thanks girl, you can go back to owlery now.” The snowy white owl bobbed her head and flew back
out into the night towards one of the other towers on the far side of Hogwarts.

“What’s the note say?” Ron asked.

“Oh nothing, just a little private joke,” Harry answered.

Harry and Ron waited patiently in the common room. The first to come down was Lavender. She had
on a knee-length lavender dress to match her name, a slight amount of dark eye shadow, and a touch
of pink lipstick.

“Hi guys!” she greeted happily. Harry had to nudge Ron slightly to get his brain working again,
and the nervous, young man approached his date.

“Hi Lavender, you look very nice.” Unexpectedly, the young woman blushed slightly.

“Thanks Ron, you look nice as well.” Ron turned as red as his hair.

“Well…um…shall we go?” he asked.

“Sure.” Lavender went first, and Ron followed her out the portrait hole.

Harry watched several other Gryffindors file through the common room – each meeting with their
escorts for the evening. Several minutes passed by, and he wondered if something was keeping
Hermione.

The door to the girls’ dormitory opened, and Harry turned around. His jaw hit the floor, and he
could nothing but stare.

Hermione was grinning from ear to ear; she’d shocked him speechless.

“Like it?” She’d left her dress robes off on purpose; they were slung over her arm; but that
wasn’t what made Harry gasp. No, it was the tight-fitting black dress that she was wearing.

Now Harry knew that he didn’t love Hermione for her looks, but he never thought she could look
this beautiful. Her dress only went down to mid-thigh and showed off her long, smooth legs. It was
quite low-cut and made Harry’s blood pressure rise several levels. Hermione had straightened her
hair so it now hung down to just above her waist. Although she never wore make-up, Pavarati and
Lavender had convinced her to wear at least some for tonight. A slight hint of blush brought out
the soft contours of her cheeks; a touch of mascara brought out her eyes; and a bit of ruby-red
lipstick made her lips look quite enticing.

“Hermione…I…I…gosh, you’re beautiful!” Harry didn’t what else to say! His girlfriend giggled
softly and walked up to him.

“Told you, I’d surprise you. Now help me on with these?” She held out her dress robes, and Harry
helped her slip them on. His arms slid around her, and he pressed himself up against her back.

“Hermione…” His voice was much deeper than normal, and it sent a pleasant shutter down
Hermione’s spine. “…I mean it; you’re absolutely gorgeous!” She turned her head and smiled at
him.

“Thank you, Mr. Potter; you look quite handsome yourself.”

Harry reached into his pocket and took out a small box.

“I have a surprise for you too, sweetheart.”

‘Sweetheart!’ Hermione had never heard Harry call her that before, but it made her feel all warm
inside.

Harry picked up her hand and slid a small round band onto her ring finger. Hermione looked down
at the ring Harry had given her. It was gold and had a small diamond in the center.

“Harry, I…I don’t know what to say.” He turned her around and smiled warmly at her.

“That’s no ordinary ring, Herm, look.” She looked down, but the diamond had been replaced with a
ruby.

“What happened?”

“It’s called a precious ring, Hermione. The stone it holds changes from one precious gem to
another after a certain period of time.” The ruby changed into a sapphire. “Since it holds precious
gemstones, you’re supposed to give it to the person who’s most precious to you.” Hermione finally
understood why he’d given her this.

“Harry!” she gasped and wrapped her arms around his neck. “Thank you, that’s so sweet.” He
wrapped his arms around her and pressed her close.

“I love you, Hermione.”

“I love you too, Harry.” He cupped her face in his hands again.

“May I kiss the most beautiful girl at Hogwarts?”

“Enough you!” she laughed as he kissed her deeply.

The two of them stood there wrapped up in each other’s arms and practically suffocating one
another. Harry had a sudden thought if whether he and Hermione should even go tonight! He wouldn’t
mind spending a night alone with her in the common room; they were the only ones left.

“Know something?” Harry gasped as he pulled away.

“What?” Hermione asked breathlessly.

“I’d say we have a choice. We could go down to the ball like everyone else, or we could spend
the evening here…all alone.” Fire danced in his eyes, and Hermione felt her face heating up.

“That’s a tough one, but…I guess I wouldn’t mind staying in tonight. However, I don’t think I’d
keep my current attire on.”

“Five minutes?” Harry asked.

“Done.”

Five minutes later, the two teenagers were lying on the couch in the Gryffindor common room.
They were staring at one another from opposite ends; Hermione had her feet propped up in Harry’s
lap; and he was giving her a very relaxing massage.

“Hmm, can I ask you something?”

“Sure Herm, what is it?” Hermione opened her eyes from the lulled state she was in and smiled at
him.

“Back during the TriWizard Tournament, what was your reaction when you saw that Rita had pegged
me as your girlfriend. I mean, I know we weren’t together then, but I just want to know…did it
offend you that everyone thought I was your girlfriend?” Harry looked at her completely
shocked.

“Hermione, I would never have been offended, but we were both still young back then. I was
actually quite flattered when Rita had printed that article. I knew that it wasn’t true, but it got
me thinking about what if you really were my girlfriend. I kind of grew out of it though. I figured
you just liked being one of my best friends and wanted to concentrate on school before anything
else.”

“I will admit though that Victor Krum made me rather mad when he showed up with you at the
tournament ball.”

“Oh really, were you planning to ask me?” Hermione was beginning to enjoy this, and Harry
scratched the back of his neck.

“To be honest, my first choice was to ask Cho Chang cause she seemed interested in me, but that
idea bombed completely. I thought about you, but I didn’t want you to think that I was just using
you so I had a date.”

“Victor had asked me pretty quickly so I probably would’ve said no anyway,” Hermione
replied.

“Herm, can I ask you something? You don’t have to answer though if you don’t want?”

“That’s all right, what is it?” Harry felt really nervous, but he asked before he lost his
nerve.

“I wanted to ask…when or why did you start loving me? I mean…did I do something or say something
that made you realize it?”

Hermione gazed at him with loving eyes; she understood his question. Harry had never had anyone
love him before. His parents had been killed to early for him to remember them, and his aunt and
uncle hated him with a vengeance. Harry didn’t know how to accept someone loving him; he felt that
he had to keep earning it or it would vanish.

“Harry…” Hermione shifted around until she was sitting right next to him and put a hand on his
thigh.

“Listen to me carefully, you don’t have to do anything to make me love you. I love you because
you’re you – no other reason. I love you because you’re sweet, kind, compassionate, and tender. You
don’t judge others by who they are; you accept everyone no matter who they are.” She ruffled his
hair and kissed his cheek.

“Thanks, I needed to hear that.”

Harry drew her into his arms, and Hermione laid her head on his chest. They both stretched out
so that Harry was lying on his back with Hermione on top of him. He didn’t mind; she wasn’t that
heavy anyway.

“Harry?”

“Yes?” His fingers were stroking her hair, and it was making Hermione very sleepy.

“Tell me, when did you know that you loved me?” He didn’t look down at her but merely pulled her
head down on his chest. Harry stared up at the ceiling trying to think of an answer.

“To be honest, I don’t remember the exact moment, but I remember my feelings. Back during our
fourth year, when you said that Victor had invited you to stay with him for the summer, I felt
happy for you, but I also felt jealous. I knew that I shouldn’t have because I’d never curse you
with staying with my aunt and uncle for the summer.”

“I guess what happened is that I kept thinking of the worst scenario. If you went to go see him,
then you might find out that you liked him, and then you might decide to go to his school instead
of Hogwarts. And if you left, I wouldn’t be able to see you anymore. I wouldn’t be able to see you
smile or have you nag me about not doing my homework on time. I wouldn’t have you there to say that
everything will be all right when things were tough, and I wouldn’t be able to tell you to relax
and have a little fun every now and then.”

Harry knew that he was babbling, but Hermione didn’t seem to be objecting. In fact, he was sure
that he could hear her purring in response to his story.

“I can’t really say that I thought it was love that made me feel like that, but I knew that I
didn’t want you to leave. I’d miss you too much!”

“I would’ve missed you too, Harry.” Hermione said softly and nuzzled her head against his
chest.

Ron and Lavender walked through the portrait chatting softly. It was well after midnight, but
the dance was still going on.

“I had fun tonight, Ron,” Lavender said softly.

“Thanks, so did I,” he replied and blushed slightly. His eyes widened when he looked passed
Lavender towards the fireplace.

“Well, I’ll be a two-headed unicorn!”

“What is it?” Lavender asked and turned around. At first, she was surprised, but then a warm
smile spread across her face. She glanced at Ron and saw the same expression on his face.

“They look so cute!” she giggled.

There, lying on the couch, sleeping as peacefully as doves in their nest were Harry and
Hermione. Harry’s back was up against one end of the couch, and Hermione was lying on top of him.
His right arm was wrapped tightly around her, while his left hand was entangled with her right
hand. Hermione’s head was on his chest, and she had a look of complete contentment on her face.

“We’d better wake them now before everyone sees them like that,” Ron suggested. He knew the
rumors that would spread if Harry and Hermione were caught sleeping together like this.

Harry woke up as he felt someone poking him in the shoulder. His eyes opened groggily, and he
yawned.

“Wake up, will you!” It was Ron.

“Ron, what is it? Is it morning already?”

“No Harry, it’s not.”

“Then let me sleep!” Ron poked him again.

“You need to get up. If McGonagall catches you two like this, you’re dead.”

“What are you talking about?” Harry finally woke up completely to see a brown head of hair
resting on his chest.

“That’s what I’m talking about,” Ron chuckled. “You two better separate before everyone else
gets back.”

“Thanks, just give us a minute, and I’ll get Herm up,” Harry replied. Ron nodded, and Harry
silently thanked him from saving both he and Hermione from some very embarrassing questions if
they’d been caught.

Ron and Lavender headed up to the dormitories, and Harry nudged the sleeping form on his
chest.

“Hermione,” he said softly and brushed her hair. She nuzzled her cheek against his chest and
sighed.

“Hmm, let me sleep Harry.” He smiled and kissed her forehead.

“Come on, sweetheart, wake up, everyone’s coming back from the dance.” It took a moment, but the
young woman opened her eyes.

Harry sat up and shifted her into his lap. Hermione rubbed the sleep out of her eyes and yawned.
She reluctantly left his arms and stood up.

Harry followed her to the dormitories but stopped when she approached the girls’ doorway. He
raised his hand out in front of him, and Hermione did the same. They pressed the palms of their
hands together and entwined their fingers. Harry tugged her towards him, and Hermione stepped back
into his embrace.

“Goodnight Harry.” He bent down and gave her a soft, gentle kiss.

“Goodnight Hermione.”

Their fingers slowly separated, as did they. She gave him one last smile and disappeared down
the corridor. Harry watched her leave then headed up the stairwell to his own room.



5. Explosion of Anger
---------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

As the holidays rolled by, Harry felt that, for once, everything was going right in his life. He
actually understood everything in his classes – even Potions –, he had a wonderful girlfriend, and
lastly, it was time for quidditch to begin. He was also glad that no one except Ron and Lavender
knew about the little incident between him and Hermione. Harry could just imagine what would happen
if people found out that they’d fallen asleep on the couch together. Before long, it would be blown
completely out of control!

“Hey Potter!”

‘Damn, why now?’ Harry had been having an excellent day and was just about to head to quidditch
practice when who decides to show up…

“What do you want, Malfoy?” The blonde-haired young man smiled evilly. His lackeys Crab and
Goyle were not more than two feet behind him.

“Oh nothing, just wanted to know how good she was?”

“What are you talking about?”

“Oh, come on, Potter, it’s no big secret. So tell me, was the Mugblood any good?” The hairs on
the back of Harry’s neck snapped to attention.

“You better not be talking about Hermione,” he growled. Malfoy just laughed sadistically.

“So, it is true isn’t it? You did knock her up. So when was it, the night of the ball when
neither of you showed up?”

“No! Nothing happened between us. And I swear, if you don’t shut-up about this…” Harry’s
knuckles were turning white as he clenched them together.

“Oh please, don’t make me laugh, Potter. You can’t touch me, and you know it.” Crab and Goyle
moved closer to Malfoy.

“Leave Hermione and I alone!”

“Or what, you’ll go whining to Dumbledore about it? Please, that old geezer can’t see two feet
in front of him.”

Harry was ready to explode. Not only had this jerk insulted his girlfriend, he was also
insulting Harry’s mentor. Taking a deep breath, Harry tried to calm himself down. He grabbed his
broomstick, turned around, and walked off. He was not going to play Malfoy’s game today.

As the week progressed, things just got worse. Harry was bombarded with questions about his
relationship with Hermione. Everyone knew that they were at least dating, and the two of them
didn’t mind that, but this was too much. Harry remembered being asked what Hermione looked like
naked, and he nearly decked the seventh-year who’d asked.

As much as Harry was annoyed, Hermione was asked twice as much. It seemed like every girl at
Hogwarts wanted to ask her about Harry. They asked how good he was, how many times they did it,
someone even asked her how big he was.

Hermione managed to keep her cool and kept telling Harry that it would just blow over, but the
young man was slowly reaching his limit.

By dinnertime Thursday, Harry seemed to be cooling down. Hermione had been right. The questions
had slowly stopped being asked. He sat down at the Gryffindor table, and Hermione took a seat
beside him. The two could hear whispering from every direction and somehow knew that it was about
them.

“Hey, you two!” Ron sat down across from Harry, and Lavender took a seat beside him.

“Hi Ron.” Ron could tell that Harry was trying to restrain himself. The past week had been
murder for him and Hermione.

“Harry, relax, this can’t last too much longer. You and Hermione keep admitting that nothing
happened and sooner or later people will stop bugging you two,” Lavender piped up.

“She’s right; you know how the rumors change from week to week,” Ron added. Hermione placed her
hand on top of Harry’s and smiled at him.

“Don’t worry, we’ll get through this; we’ve gone through worse.” Harry gave her a small smile
and squeezed her hand.

“Yeah, I know, I guess that I’ve been on edge lately. Sorry guys.”

“Nothing to apologize for,” Ron answered. That settled, the four of them dug into their
meal.

Dinner was halfway through, and it seemed like things were going to remain calm.

Until…

“I’m serious! He told me so.” A fifth-year Hufflepuff turned around toward the Slytherin table.
“Isn’t it true, Malfoy?”

“Absolutely, wherever it’s convenient for them? But don’t ask me, why don’t we ask the man
himself?” Harry stopped eating but didn’t turn around.

“Hey Potter! I hear that the Mugblood puts out for you whenever you want? So tell me, what’s she
good for – three, four, five times a day?” He said it loud enough for the entire Great Hall to hear
him, and several snickers could be heard.

“Mr. Malfoy, that is enough.” It was Professor McGonagall, and she looked quite agitated at his
question.

Meanwhile, Harry was ready to spit nails. Ron actually gulped as he saw the rage burning in his
best friend’s eyes.

“Malfoy, why don’t you just shut your big mouth?” Hermione yelled as her eyes burned with
anger.

“Well…well…well…tell me, Potter, is she that sassy in bed?”

WHAM!!!

Malfoy was slammed back against the wall so hard that his back nearly broke. No one was laughing
anymore as they merely watched in utter shock.

“I warned you, Malfoy!” Harry was floating in midair above the Gryffindor table, and his eyes
held a glaze of pure hatred. He levitated across the room until he was above the Slytherin table.
Crab and Goyle stood up to get between him and Malfoy.

“If you two know what’s good for you, you’ll move right now!” Harry roared.

No one had ever seen Harry Potter so angry. Not even the professors could believe it. Hermione
watched in silent shock. What surprised her the most was that Harry wasn’t even using his wand to
do this. It was still sitting by his plate on the table.

Harry’s eyes burned with a fiery fury, and the two Slytherins backed away under his deadly
gaze.

Malfoy was frozen in shock. He was trying to pull himself off the wall but to no avail. He could
only watch as Harry floated right up to him.

“This is the last time I will say this, Malfoy. Nothing happened between Hermione and I. I will
not have you or anyone else talking about her like she’s a cheap two-dollar hoar. You want to mess
with me – fine, but don’t you dare touch someone that I care about? Is that clear?” His green eyes
bore into Malfoy’s head.

“You just wait, Potter, when my father hears about this…”

“That’s just like you, Draco. Go running off to daddy when you’re not happy. What’s the matter
can’t fend for yourself? If you’re a man, you’ll fight your own battles.” Harry moved forward until
his nose was almost touching Malfoy’s.

“I give you one last warning. If you ever insult Hermione again in any way – that includes
calling her Mugblood – I swear, I’ll transfigure you into a mouse and feed you to Filch’s cat!”

Filch, who had been standing in the back of the hall watching, raised an eyebrow at Harry’s
statement, and Mrs. Norris hissed happily and raised her claw toward Malfoy.

At the professors’ table, McGonagall had gotten over her initial shock and was now trying to
counteract Harry’s spell, but she couldn’t. Not even Snape could counteract the magical power that
Harry Potter was putting out.

“Harry!” It was Dumbledore’s voice. “Put him down.” At first, Harry didn’t move, but his eyes
twitched slightly.

“I said put him down,” Dumbledore said a little more forcibly. Harry still didn’t move; his eyes
merely burned a hole into Malfoy’s face.

Ron looked at Hermione, and she nodded as she stood to her feet.

“Harry,” she said trying to soothe his anger. “Put him down, please. You’ve made you’re point;
you don’t have to do anymore.”

Harry Potter turned to face his girlfriend, and her smile made his rage drain away. He backed
away from Malfoy and lowered his head towards the floor. The blonde young man hit the floor with
thud, and Harry levitated back over to the Gryffindor table. He returned to the ground, but
everyone was still staring at him.

Looking at Hermione beside him, Harry drew her close and put her head on his shoulder. She
understood was he was doing; he was saying that he would protect her no matter who tried to harm
her. Harry finally realized what he’d just done, and he felt slightly ashamed.

Looking up at Professor Dumbledore, he could see concern in the older man’s eyes, but what
surprised him was the look of wonderment in the other professors’ eyes. McGonagall was looking at
him in shear astonishment as was Professor Flitwick, Professor Sprout, and even Hagrid was in
shock. Snape was just scowling at him angrily.

“Harry, I want to see you in my office first thing tomorrow morning,” Dumbledore said firmly.
Harry merely nodded and looked down at the young woman in his arms.

Hermione looked up at him worriedly. What would happen to him? He’d used magic in a threatening
fashion towards another student. What would his punishment be?

“All right, everyone, return to your dormitories,” Dumbledore ordered.

“Albus, what just happened here?” McGonagall asked as the older man sat back in his chair. “I’ve
never seen Harry wield such power.”

“He should be expelled!” Snape hissed.

“You forget, Severus, that Draco Malfoy has been going around Hogwarts the past week telling
everyone lies about Harry and Hermione. If someone treated your wife like a prostitute, wouldn’t
you be angry?”

“But the boy nearly killed Malfoy.”

“I highly doubt that Harry would’ve killed him; it is not in him to kill another human being. I
believe that he was merely trying to scare Malfoy into leaving Miss Granger alone.”

“Albus, he needs to learn to control his power, or someone could get hurt.”

“I know, Minerva, that is why I asked to speak with him.” Dumbledore gazed at the young couple
that still hadn’t let go of one another.

Harry was stroking Hermione’s hair gently, and she was crying softly on his shoulder.

“Go on, Herm, I’ll meet up with you and Ron later on in the common room, okay?”

“You sure?” she blurted out. Harry gave her a soft smile and wiped her eyes.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart, everything will be fine,” he whispered. “Now go on, I’ll see you in a
little while.”

Hermione gave him a quick peck on the lips, grabbed her things, and headed out. Harry turned to
see Crab and Goyle helping Malfoy out of the Great Hall.

“I’ll get you for this, Potter,” Malfoy sneered.

“Try it and see what I do!” Harry fired back. He smirked as he saw a hint of fear appear in
Malfoy’s eyes.

“Go on, you three, ” Professor McGonagall stated as she approached them from behind.

“As for you, Mr. Potter, you will accompany me to Professor Dumbledore’s office first thing
tomorrow morning.”

“Yes ma’am.”

The following morning, Harry woke up with a slight headache. He hadn’t slept well at all. When
he’d returned to the Gryffindor common room last night, no one, with the exception of Ron and
Hermione, would talk to him. They all seemed to be afraid of him. Harry dressed quickly and headed
out of the portrait hole, heading for McGonagall’s classroom.

As he walked through the hallways, almost every student stopped to stare at him. Harry felt like
he was standing on a stage with a spotlight pointing right at him. His mind was so preoccupied that
he didn’t bother to look in front of him.

Harry bumped into someone, and they both fell onto the floor. He quickly got up and noticed that
the person he’d knocked over was a young girl. She was quite small even for a first-year student.
She had strawberry blond hair and light blue-green eyes.

“Oh my…” she gasped, and her face went white with fear. By now, the entire hallway had stopped
movement, and their eyes were glued to the little altercation.

“Are you okay?” Harry asked. The little girl scrambled up and tried to pick up her books that
she’d dropped.

“I’m…I’m sorry Mr. Potter; I didn’t mean to be so clumsy,” she almost cried.

“Here…” Harry knelt down and put a hand on her shoulder, “…let me help you.” He picked up the
girl’s books and handed them to her.

“Thank you, Mr. Potter.” She still had her face down and put her things back in her bag.

“Just call me Harry, and may I ask who you are?” he asked with a warm smile. The little girl
stopped shaking and lifted her head.

“I…I’m Carissa…Carissa Martin, but my friends call me Carrie.”

“You’re a first year aren’t you?”

“Y-yes, I’m the first member of my family to come to Hogwarts.”

“Well then, I’m sure your parents are very proud,” Harry said with a smile of admiration.

“Thank you, Mr. Potter…um…I mean, Harry.”

“Wait a minute…Carrie…why does that sound familiar. Do you know Ginny Weasley?” At the mention
of Ron’s sister’s name, the young girl’s face lit up.

“Ginny, yes, I do. She’s my tutor in Transfiguration; I’m not very good at it,” Carrie answered
and turned slightly pink. Harry just grinned. He remembered Ginny mentioning a younger student that
she’d been helping get through her first year.

“I’ll tell you a secret, Carrie; I wasn’t very good at it either.”

“Really!” A smile appeared on her face, and Harry chuckled softly. He noticed the emblem on her
robe.

“So, you’re a Gryffindor too, huh?”

“Yes, I felt really nervous when Professor McGonagall put that dirty, old hat on my head, but it
went quickly so I was okay.”

“Yeah, I still remember my sorting ceremony; everyone was staring at me, almost begging for me
to be in their house.”

“Well, you are the famous Harry Potter,” Carrie piped up.

“I’m no different than anybody else; I’m just as normal as you or any other student at Hogwarts.
To be honest, I wish that I wasn’t famous; it’s more of a curse than a blessing.” Harry noticed
that girl was intrigued by his words, but he needed to see Dumbledore so he had to cut the
conversation short.

“So which class do you have now?”

“Elementary Wizardry with Professor Flitwick.” Carrie finished repacking her bag, and Harry held
out his hand.

“I’ll see you around, okay? If you need help, just come find me.” Her eyes shone brightly, and
she smiled cheekily.

“Thank you!” she nearly shouted.

“Bye Carrie, it was nice to meet you.”

“You to, Harry, bye.”

Harry watched her disappear down the hallway and finally noticed that everyone was staring at
him in shock. He snapped his fingers and like an alarm clock, everyone snapped out of the trance.
Harry couldn’t help it and chuckled. He turned around and headed down towards McGonagall’s
room.

Harry sat in a plush chair in front of Dumbledore’s desk, anxiously waiting for the headmaster
to arrive. He could hear the gargoyle slide out of its spot, and voices coming up the stairs.

“Where is he?” one voice almost demanded. Harry snapped around; he knew that voice!

Professor Dumbledore entered his office; his glasses hanging down the front of his nose as
usual. What made Harry surprised were the two people with him. One, he recognized as Cornelius
Fudge, the minister of magic, and the second was none other than Lucius Malfoy himself.

“You!” Lucius nearly hissed and glared at Harry. The young man glared right back. “How dare you
attack my son?”

“He deserved everything he got!” Harry fired back.

“All right, that’s enough you two!” Fudge ordered. Lucius Malfoy grudgingly complied, but he
still glared daggers at Harry.

“Harry, I asked to see you today to discuss what happened yesterday in the Great Hall. You
should not have done that.” Dumbledore’s eyes were quite solemn, and his voice was stern.

“But professor, I couldn’t just stand by and listen to him degrade Hermione. I won’t let someone
talk about her like she’s a tramp.”

“That doesn’t matter, Harry, you cannot take matters into your own hands,” Fudge stated. “If you
have a problem with a fellow student, you should have told your house professor.”

“Sir, with all due respect, that wouldn’t have done a thing. Malfoy knows that as much as I do.
Nobody would disbelieve him; they’re too scared of him. I’ve spent six years of my life listening
to his bullshit, watching him put people down, and using fear as a way to get what he wants. I
don’t care if it wasn’t convenient for everybody, but someone had put him in his place.”

Dumbledore tried hard not to grin; he was almost laughing on the inside. Harry had grown into a
fine man. He stared down one of the most influential wizards and the minister of magic without a
blink.

“You, boy, are nothing more than a trumped up heroine. Your parents weren’t even that good of
wizards; no wonder you associate with Mugbloods,” Lucius sneered.

“Harry!” Dumbledore said firmly, noting the fire burning in the young man’s eyes. Lucius Malfoy
just laughed sadistically.

“Don’t stop him, Albus, let the boy speak. He can’t dig his grave any deeper anyway.”

“I warn you, Mr. Potter, what you say will effect the consequences of your actions,” Fudge
stated.

“Minister Fudge, if I may, I want to know why you are stuck on the ‘pure-blood’ issue?”

“Excuse me?”

“Sir, I want to know why you and the Ministry refuse to accept the fact that not all wizards
have to come from wizarding families. Why can’t you accept those that show they have gifts even if
their parents are muggles?”

“Because boy, the only true wizards are those who come from pure-blood families!” Lucius Malfoy
nearly shouted. Harry did not back down.

“If that is true, Mr. Malfoy, then you are not a true wizard – neither am I, or Minister, or any
wizard or witch anywhere. Even your family, Mr. Malfoy began with a muggle who discovered they had
magical powers. Now without that patriarch, your entire line would have been non-existent, isn’t
that right?”

Lucius Malfoy was speechless; for once, he didn’t know what say. Even Minister Fudge was quite
astounded with Harry’s words. Again, Dumbledore suppressed a grin from popping up on his face.

“Enough of this babbling, Potter, we’re not here to discuss history. We’ve come here to see that
you are punished for what you did!” Malfoy said angrily.

“Punished for what? Defending someone that I care about?”

“No, Harry, for using magic in a threatening way against another student. It is one of the
oldest rules at Hogwarts; no student may use magic in a life-threatening way against another
student.”

“I wasn’t going to kill him,” Harry said in his defense. Fudge shook his head.

“It does not matter; you still used powerful magic against a fellow Hogwarts student.
Furthermore, magic that you are not even allowed to use yet. I’m surprised that you could even do
such a thing,” Fudge stated looking at Dumbledore out of the corner of his eye. He got a very
solemn look on his face.

“In light of recent events and your history of breaking the ministry’s rules of magic, we have
no choice but to expel you from Hogwarts – effective immediately.”

Harry was dumbfounded, and Dumbledore quickly stood up.

“Cornelius, isn’t that a bit much? Everything that Harry has done in the past has turned out to
be the best move. He acts according to his instincts.”

“I’m sorry, Albus, but rules are rules. Harry Potter, you will have three days to leave
Hogwarts. If you have not left by then, you will be arrested and detained.” Fudge almost looked
like he hated having the ability to talk at that moment. Lucius, on the other hand, was smiling
quite widely.

“You see, boy, it doesn’t matter what you thought was right; you’re gone!”

Harry did not respond but merely looked down at the carpet. He…he was expelled… from
Hogwarts…the only home that he ever had.

“I’m sorry, Harry, I know that this is hard to take, but the rules must be upheld,” Fudge
stated.

“No Minister, I…I understand,” Harry replied. “May I be excused Professor?” Dumbledore’s eyes
were filled with sadness, and he merely nodded.



6. Harry Potter...Expelled!
---------------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Harry Potter had never been so miserable in his whole life. He sat through his classes – one
after another, thinking about how it would be the last time he was there.

What he was dreading the most was having to tell his friends…Ron and…dear God, Hermione. What
was he supposed to say to her? Finally, he decided; he would tell them both this afternoon – in
private.

The trio was heading down to Snape’s dungeon for Potions class when Harry heard a sadistic
laugh.

“I told you, Potter. See what happens when you mess with me?” Malfoy smirked. The students in
the hallway immediately stopped in their places.

“Shut-up Malfoy, I’m not in the mood for bad jokes!” Ron answered.

“Stay out of this, Weasley, or you’ll be expelled just like Potter!” The entire hallway let out
a gasp.

“What are you talking about?” Hermione demanded. Malfoy’s smile only widened.

“It’s quite simple, Mugblood, your ‘legendary’ boyfriend was expelled this morning – by none
other than Minister Fudge himself.”

Hermione couldn’t believe it. No…no, it couldn’t be true. She looked at Harry, begging him to
tell her that it was a lie, but his eyes gave her the answer.

“Harry, he’s kidding right!” Ron said with a smile.

“No.” It was simple word, but it made everybody within a hundred feet gulp.

“Harry!” Hermione gasped and looked into his eyes. “Why? Why were you expelled?”

“It’s simple, Mugblood, he messed with my family, and anyone who does that is eliminated,”
Malfoy said proudly.

“You’re wrong!” Harry shouted. “I was expelled for two reasons.”

“Oh really, well tell us Potter, what are they?”

“The first is because I stood up for someone that I cared about, and the second…” Harry moved
Hermione away from him and walked right up to Malfoy’s face.

“…The second reason is because you did exactly what I said you would Draco. You were unhappy so
you ran to daddy, just like the spoiled brat that you are!”

“Why you…” Malfoy grinded his teeth together.

“I knew that you would Malfoy; you can’t do anything without daddy watching out for you. What’d
you do…send him a message right after you got back to your room? Or was that after you spent an
hour crying.” People were snickering all around, and Malfoy was ready to explode.

“You’re going to pay for this, Potter.”

“Oh really, Draco, well like I said, try me. But think about this, since I already know that I’m
being expelled, that gives me free reign to do anything I want…to you.” His green eyes burned into
the blond young man’s face, and you could hear Malfoy gulp.

Harry turned around and walked back to his friends.

“Ron…Hermione…let’s go.” The two followed him without hesitation, leaving Draco Malfoy seething
once again.

Once they were out of earshot, Hermione grabbed Harry’s arm.

“Harry, please tell me it’s not true?” she nearly begged.

“I’m afraid it is, Herm.”

“But how, you’re Harry Potter; they can’t expel you!” Ron gasped.

“That didn’t matter to Minister Fudge; he said rules were rules. I’ve got three days before I
have to leave.”

“Three days?” Hermione was almost shivering, and Harry took her in his arms. “This has to be a
bad dream. Tell me this is a bad dream.”

“Shh.” Harry smoothed her hair with his fingers, and she put her head on his shoulder. “Don’t
worry, we’ll get through this. I promise.” Hermione nodded in reflex, but her heart broke at the
thought of him leaving her.

Harry spent the next three days saying goodbye to his friends. Hagrid had spent ten minutes
cleaning out his ears just to make sure that he’d heard right. Pavarati and Lavender were stunned
to say the least, and Neville and Seamus weren’t much different. Even Professor McGonagall was sad
to see him go. Not to mention that his fellow quidditch team members were mortified as his sudden
departure.

Above all, Harry made sure to spend as much time as he could with Hermione. They’d sneak out at
night and spend hours outside stargazing. She would lie in his arms, and he would kiss her hair as
she hummed under her breath.

During his final day at Hogwarts, Harry was once again summoned to Dumbledore’s office. He made
sure that his trunk was packed, and his things in order. Making his way passed the gargoyle statue,
his emerged in the familiar room.

“Yes Professor?” Dumbledore stood up from behind his desk.

“Harry, I know that we talked about this, but I’m sure that it still hurts.”

“Like nails on a chalkboard, sir.” Dumbledore reached into his robes and handed Harry a piece of
parchment.

“When you arrive in Hogsmeade, go to this address. As I told you Harry, we must prepare for what
is ahead – you most of all.”

“What is this for sir?”

“You may be expelled from Hogwarts, Harry, but not from learning magic. You’re going to train.
I’ve contacted some old friends of ours; they will meet you at your final destination.”

“Harry, listen carefully, you are going to learn things that no other Hogwarts student will
know. In fact, you shouldn’t even be learning them for another twenty years. You must promise that
you will tell no one of what you learn; it would be very dangerous.”

“You have my word, Professor.”

“Good. Well then, until we meet again, goodbye Harry and good luck”

“Thank you, sir, I will always remember this place as my home.” Harry walked out of Dumbledore’s
office for the last time.

That afternoon, it was finally time to say goodbye. Harry walked out the main gates one last
time and turned to look up at the castle that held so many memories for him. He looked at the small
group that followed him. He realized that these people had become his family.

After saying goodbye to almost everyone, he came to the last three: Hagrid, Ron, and Hermione.
Harry hugged his old friend, and the half-giant had tears streaming down his cheeks. He felt like
he was losing a son.

“Now Hagrid, behave yourself while I’m gone. No more escapades with exotic creatures okay?”
Harry teased. Hagrid sniffled and nodded his head. Next came Ron.

“C’mere.” Ron grappled him in big, bear hug, and Harry held onto him with all he had.

“Okay air!” Harry gasped.

“Don’t worry, Harry, we’ll get you back in, somehow,” Ron said firmly.

“That’s okay, but thanks for the kind thought. Look after the place for me, okay?”

“You got it, buddy.”

One last person…

Harry looked at the young woman who had stood by him through thick and thin – through hell and
high water. He lifted his hand and faced his palm up. Hermione already had tears pouring down her
cheeks, but she reciprocated and placed her palm over his. Their fingers entwined, and Harry tugged
her into his arms.

“Harry!” she cried and dove into his arms. She bawled her eyes out, and he couldn’t help but
feel his eyes moisten as well.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart, we’ll see each other again real soon. I promise you that.”

“You mean it?” she asked as her head popped up. Harry cupped her cheek in his hand.

“With all my heart, Hermione.”

“I love you, Harry Potter.” She poured all of her heart into that statement.

“And I love you, Hermione Granger,” he replied, sending her his heart in return. No more words
were needed as their lips came together.

Harry clutched her in his arms, and Hermione hung onto his neck for dear life. The two teenagers
pressed up against one another, wanting to implant this in their mind for the rest of their
lives.

Finally, they separated, but Harry did not release her.

“I left Hedwig in the owlery, Hermione. If you need to find me, send her, and she will.” He
kissed her one last time and let her slip from his arms.

“Until next time.” Harry gave his friends a warm smile and boarded the longboat that was waiting
for him. Hermione’s hands were trembling, and Ron put a comforting hand on her shoulder.

Slowly and steadily, the boat made its way out onto the lake. Harry watched as his friends grew
smaller and smaller. He squinted trying to catching a last glimpse of Hermione. He saw her, and she
mouthed a single phrase ‘My heart is with you.’

“And mine is with you,” Harry said out loud. He watched until she and the others were completely
out of site then turned around and sat down until he reached Hogsmeade.



7. Xanthus
----------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Upon disembarking at Hogsmeade Station, Harry borrowed a trolley and loaded his things on board.
He looked at the address that Dumbledore had given him and went up to a peddler on the corner.

“Excuse me? Could you tell where I can find this place?” The peddler looked at the numbers and
laughed.

“My boy, that’s easy; it’s the Three Broomsticks.”

“Are you sure?” Harry gawked.

“Absolutely.”

“Thanks.”

“Anytime.”

Harry was confused but made his way towards the familiar building.

He entered the wooden building to hear sounds of chattering from various customers throughout
the place. He walked up to the counter and smiled at the slightly plump woman behind it.

“Excuse me, ma’am?”

“Ah, Mr. Potter, how nice to see you. What can I get for you?”

“Nothing, thank you. I was wondering if someone is waiting for me, or if a message was left for
me?” The clerk smiled at him.

“Why yes, as a matter of fact…” she reached into her apron and took out a rolled piece of
parchment, “…here you are, lad.”

“Thank you, ma’am,” Harry answered and unrolled the scroll.

Inside it read:

Harry,

When you are ready, hold this parchment in your hand and say ‘Xanthus’.

Sirius

Following the directions, Harry walked back outside where his things were waiting for him. He
put his free hand on the trolley and looked at the instructions.

“Well, here goes…Xanthus.”

He felt like he was being pulled very hard, and suddenly, Harry found himself outside a very
large mansion. The parchment had been a portkey.

The young man looked around at the wonderful scenery. Everything in site was green, and there
was a fountain in the center.

“Ah, Mr. Potter, there you are.” Harry turned to see an elderly man in a tuxedo approaching
him.

“How do you do, my name Mathis, I’m the chief of staff.”

“Hello sir, may I ask where I am?” The old man chuckled.

“Of course, how rude of me. Welcome to the house of Albus Dumbledore.”

“What?” Harry nearly screeched.

“Oh my, the master did not tell you did he. Well, at least you’re here now.”

“But I thought that Professor Dumbledore lived at Hogwarts.”

“Dear boy, he’s not always been at Hogwarts. He comes here when he wants time to rest, or if he
must entertain some guests. Anyway, enough of my babbling please follow me.”

Harry followed the man up a long sidewalk towards the massive three-story house. It was
incredible. It could compete with the Palace of Versailles in a beauty contest any day.

“This place is wonderful,” Harry said in wonder.

“Thank you, Mr. Potter, the master has always had good taste.”

“Yes, I’m sure, but please, call me Harry.”

“As you wish, my son.”

As the pair approached the massive wooden doors at the front of the house, Harry was not
surprised to see them open by themselves, and Mathis ushered him inside.

“This way, please, the others are already here.”

“Others?” Harry asked.

“Why yes. Didn’t the master tell you? You are to receive special training are you not?”

“Well, he did mention it.”

“Good. Your trainers are already here.”

Harry gulped. He wasn’t the best person in world at first impressions, and now, he was going to
have to meet some special trainers who were supposed to teach him the highest levels of magic. His
stomach began to turn, and he gulped silently.

Despite his nervous, Harry still managed to gaze around at the inside of the house. It looked
very much like an old, Victorian homestead. Everything in site looked to be at least two to three
hundred years old.

“In here, Harry, they are waiting for you in the study.”

Mathis showed him towards a room guarded by another set of double wooden doors. The old man
stopped walking, and Harry turned to face him.

“Aren’t you coming?”

“No Harry, I have duties that I must attend to.” And he quickly disappeared.

“Well Potter, better get this over with.”

Harry calmly walked up the doors and opened the right one. He stepped into the room, and his
eyes almost bugged out of his head.

“Hello Harry, it’s good to see you again.”

“Well…well…well…Harry Potter, so old Dumbledore decided to send you to the magic school of hard
knox, eh?”

“Professor Lupin…Professor Moody?” Harry couldn’t stop gawking.

“In the flesh boy. And let’s not forget number three,” Moody quipped pointing to the other side
of the room. Harry turned his head, and his eyes lit up.

“Hi Harry, it’s good to see you.”

“Sirius!”

Harry was overjoyed. He’d been so nervous about having to meet new people, but it turned out to
some of his oldest friends. Professor Lupin and Professor Moody were two of his former Defense
Against the Dark Arts teachers, and Sirius was his godfather. He couldn’t ask for better
trainers.

“This is great! I didn’t know it was going to be you three.” Lupin stood up from his chair and
walked over to the young man.

“Harry, listen carefully, this is not a picnic. You are here to learn and to prepare; we know
that Voldomort is returning soon. Albus told us about your Nightmare Curse, and he asked that we
help you learn to use your abilities fully.”

“Remus is right, boy. We need to whip you into shape fast. We need all the good wizards we can
get, and who better than Harry Potter. But you must know, that this will not be easy. In fact, it
will a hundred times more difficult than anything you’ve faced at Hogwarts. Are you sure you wish
to do this?” Moody asked, and his magical eye glistened.

Harry closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He thought back to everything that had happened to
him over the passed few months – his nightmares, his talk with Dumbledore, he and Hermione. Harry
suddenly got the vision of Voldomort standing over a helpless Hermione laughing sadistically as he
prepared to recite the killing curse. No, he would not let it happen; he refused to let it
happen.

“Harry?” Sirius asked, walking over to him. The young man opened his eyes and looked at the
three men with an eye of determination.

“When do I begin?” The three smiled at their pupil.

“Let’s get to work.”



8. Training Begins
------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Hermione sat in the Gryffindor common room trying to finish her Arithmacy homework, but she just
couldn’t focus.

“One month…I can’t believe it’s already been one month.” She felt a tightening in her chest, and
her eyes dampened.

‘I miss you, Harry.’ She said to herself.

After he’d left, Hermione had withdrawn into herself. She wasn’t a complete hermit, but she
rarely talked to anyone outside of Ron, Lavender, Pavarati, and Hagrid.

Ron was afraid that she would become chronically depressed if this kept up, but he could
understand how she felt. Hogwarts wasn’t the same without Harry Potter.

Everything was different now. The Gryffindors weren’t even close to winning the House Cup, and
their quidditch team wasn’t fairing much better. Hagrid had lost some his enthusiasm in teaching
about exotic creatures, and he never got into trouble anymore. Even Malfoy was quiet; his favorite
target was now gone. He had no one that he wanted to annoy around anymore.

The hardest day had been Valentine’s Day. Hermione had been miserable the whole day until she
got a special delivery during dinner.

Both she and Ron had sent Harry several letters, and he’d replied without delay. His letters
were one of the reasons why Hermione wasn’t totally reclusive.

Just as the feast began, a familiar screech could be heard from the rafters. Hermione smiled
brightly as she saw Hedwig swooped down towards the Gryffindor table. The snowy, white owl dropped
a box into her arms, and Hermione nearly shredded the brown wrapping.

“See Herm, I told you Harry wouldn’t forget what day it was,” Lavender quipped. Her friend
blushed slightly and continued opening her package.

“Come on, I wanna see what he sent!” Pavarati said enthusiastically.

Hermione unwrapped the package to find a heart-shaped box of chocolates, a card, and a long,
slender, black, velvet case. She opened the box of candy to see that it was divided into three
sections – strawberry, caramel, and truffles.

“How sweet, he even remembered my favorites,” Hermione sighed dreamily.

“Well, what’s the card say?” Lavender prodded.

Hermione opened the envelope and drew out the card. On the front was a picture of beautiful, red
rose, and it had been enchanted to bloom over and over again. She opened the card and recognized
Harry’s handwriting inside:

*To my sweet Hermione,*

*Roses are red*

*Violets are blue*

*But nothing shall ever be*

*As beautiful as you*

*Yours Forever,*

Harry

Hermione couldn’t help it as tears welled up in her eyes. She picked up the velvet case and
realized that it was in fact a jewelry case. Her fingers were trembling as she opened it. Inside,
she found a heart-shaped necklace and a small note.

Hermione,

I want you to have this because wherever you go my heart goes with you. We will be together
soon, sweetheart, but until then, wear this as a temporary replacement. I love you, now and
always.

Harry

The tears fell freely, but they were tears of joy. Hermione took out the gold necklace and
placed it around her neck. She clutched the locket in her hand and could almost feel his heart
beating in her hand.

‘I love you too, Harry,’ she said silently.

Unlike Hermione, Harry’s Valentine’s Day wasn’t quite that peachy. He jumped and rolled out of
the way as a circle of fire exploded around where he previously stood.

“Well done, Harry, now keep going,” Lupin urged him. Harry ducked and dodged as his three
trainers tried to hit him with various spells. He jumped out of the way of a thunder attack thrown
by Moody and just barely missed being petrified by Sirius.

“Remus, Moody,” Sirius shouted. Harry knew what they were doing; they were going to try and
attack him all at once. He’d been training for this; he just hoped that he could pull it off.

“Now!”

“Petrificas!” Sirius shouted.

“Infernas!” Lupin added.

“Aquas torenche!” Moody finished. Harry had less than a second.

“Barrias erecte!” he shouted. A magical barrier came up around him, and it blocked the three
curses.

“Good Harry, now maintain it!” Moody ordered. The three men increased the power of the attacks,
and Harry felt as if he was in bubble that was slowing shrinking.

His wand began shaking, and his forearm was vibrating as the barrier absorbed the magic spells.
Harry knew that he couldn’t hold this much longer, but he had too. He had to!

“Come on, Harry, concentrate!” Lupin instructed. His expression fell as he saw the young wizard
go down to one knee. Harry’s teeth were clenched tight as he tried to maintain his spell.

“Dammit Harry, how do you expect to win? How do expect to protect Hermione?” Sirius shouted at
him.

At the mention of his girlfriend’s name, Harry’s eyes snapped open. He kept seeing the same
vision in his mind. Voldomort standing over Hermione; his wand pointed at her just waiting to kill
her.

“I WILL!!!” he shouted. The barrier around him expanded and flung the three men off their feet.
They landed no less than twenty feet away. Harry looked at his three trainers; he couldn’t believe
what he’d done.

“I’m sorry, are you all right?” he asked, hoping that they weren’t hurt. To his surprise, they
all smiled and started laughing.

“Well boy, you’re just full of surprises,” Moody snickered.

“Yes Harry, you do have great power within you,” Lupin added. Sirius walked up to his godson and
put his hand on the young man’s shoulder.

“That was excellent, Harry, but you need to learn to control your power. It seems that you are
strongest when your emotions are focused on the ones you care about. You need to try and stay
focused on them when you fight. Think about them and use your feelings as a tool. Emotions can be a
strong ally with magical power.”

“Sirius is right, young Potter. A wizard’s emotions can amplify or weaken his power. Think of
Voldomort, he is filled with nothing but hatred and bitterness; that produces an enormous amount of
negative power. You must counter that with your own power; you must use the love and friendship of
the ones you care about. Only then, can you stand a chance,” Moody explained.

“I’ll try…really I will. It’s just that…” Harry closed his eyes and turned his head away.

“You miss her,” Sirius said matter-of-factly.

“What?”

“You miss Hermione don’t you? You miss her, Ron, and everyone at Hogwarts.”

“Yes…yes, I do, but I keep reminding myself that I need to be ready when Voldomort returns. I
can’t be distracted right now, or they could all end up dead.”

“Harry…” Lupin said softly, “…it is good that you are focused on your objective, but don’t shut
yourself off from your friends. Balance your feelings and your duty; it is difficult to do; but I
know that you can do it.”

“Why don’t you go see them?” Sirius stated with a wide smile.

“But…but I can’t enter Hogwarts.”

“Here Potter, I thought you might want this back someday.” Moody tossed him a piece of rolled up
parchment. Upon opening it, Harry nearly jumped. It was the Marauder’s Map that George and Fred
Weasley had given him back in his second year.

“Professor Moody, I thought you destroyed this,” Harry gasped.

“Well, you never used it to really ‘break the rules’ so I decided that you should have it back.”
The old man’s magical eye glinted, and Harry grinned at him.

“I’m sure you brought your Invisibility Cloak didn’t you, Harry?” Lupin quipped.

“Thank you, all of you, but I can’t accept this, not yet. I will use it soon, but I want to keep
working.”

“I’m surprised at you Harry; I’d have thought you’d go as soon as possible,” Sirius replied.

“Well, I’d like to, but I’d rather go in a few weeks. It would mean a lot more to Hermione then
if I went now.”



“Why do you say that?” Remus asked him. Harry’s smile only widened.

“Her birthday is in a few weeks that’s why.” The three men roared with laughter, and Harry
couldn’t help but join them.

“Well, shall we continue?” Sirius prodded.

“Yes, I’m ready,” Harry stated and raised his wand.



9. Hermione
-----------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Ron Weasley trudged up the stairs to his dormitory. Gryffindor had just lost another quidditch
match – this one to Ravenclaw. With their other loss to Slytherin, their hopes for the cup were all
but hopeful.

Despite the dreary state that he was in, he reminded himself that today was a special day. Today
was Hermione’s birthday, and he needed to be happy and joyful for her – especially without Harry
around.

Ron found that his time at Hogwarts was boring without Harry around. What was he supposed to do
without his partner in crime? Walking into his room, he threw his quidditch robes on his bed and
put his broomstick underneath the mattress. Ron was so lost in his own thoughts that he didn’t see
someone pull off their cloak.

“Hey Ron, what’s up?”

“Hi Harry,” he replied without even thinking.

Three…two…one…

“HARRY!” Ron gasped and nearly fell off his bed. He ran across the room and hugged his best
friend.

“Whoa, I need air!” Harry laughed.

“What are you doing here?” Ron gawked. “If Dumbledore, or worse, if Snape catches you here,
you’re dead meat.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll be fine. So how have thing’s been?”

“Well, Gryffindor’s really slumped since you left. We’re third in line for the Quidditch Cup and
in last place for the House Cup. Frankly, it’s quite boring around here without you; there’s no
excitement anymore.”

“Thanks for the compliment,” Harry laughed. His face turned a bit more solemn.

“How’s Hermione been?”

“Okay. She’s been a bit more withdrawn since you left – kinda like she was during first year.
She still talks to me, Hagrid, and a few others, but she’s a bit anti-social these days. She’ll
come back from classes and bury herself in her books till bedtime. She goes to Hogsmeade with us
every once and awhile, but other than that, she’s a bit lonely.”

“I know the feeling; I’ve missed you guys. I actually could’ve come before, but I wanted to
surprise her on her birthday.”

“Trust me, she’ll be as happy as a clam.”

“Do me a favor? Don’t tell her I’m here?” Ron’s smile turned into an impish grin.

“Of course not, it’d ruin the surprise. Tell you what, I’ll talk to Lavender and Pavarati. We’ll
get you into Hermione’s room, and you can surprise her there.”

“Ron, as usual, you’re a genius.”

“Oh please, no applause,” he laughed. “Just wait up here, and I’ll go find the girls okay?”

With some prodding from Ron, Lavender snuck Harry into their room.

“Hermione, what’s wrong?” Ron asked as they sat at dinner. She’d been picking her food for the
last half hour but not eaten any of it.

“Aren’t you hungry?” Lavender asked.

“Not really, I guess I’m just tired; I’ve had a long week. I’m sorry.”

“C’mon Herm, it’s your birthday. Snap out of it, or you won’t get your cake!” Pavarati
snickered.

“Cake!” Hermione gasped and perked up. Her three friends chuckled, and Ron handed her a box.

“Happy Birthday, Hermione, we asked Dobby and Winky to make this for you. They baked it, and the
other house elves did the icing.”

Hermione opened the box and saw a beautiful cake inside. It had three layers – chocolate,
vanilla, and chocolate again. The icing read ‘Happy 17th Birthday from all your friends’.

“Thanks everyone, I really appreciate it,” Hermione said with a smile.

“Well, are you gonna cut it or not?” Ron asked with a wide grin. Hermione laughed softly and
sliced the cake. She handed a piece to each of her three friends, and they all enjoyed it.

After dinner, the quartet headed back towards Gryffindor Tower.

“Well Hermione, I’ll see you later. I gotta help Lavender finish up her homework for Advanced
Divination,” Ron said with a slight groan. Hermione grinned at him slyly.

“Oh c’mon, Ron, you have to help her? More like she has to help you!” She chuckled as the
red-haired young man blushed.

“Hey, stop teasing him, Herm, we’re helping each other out,” Lavender defended.

“Sure you two aren’t just trying to find some time alone?” Pavarati snickered. Both Ron and
Lavender flushed deeply.

“I…we…we’re not…I mean…” Ron stuttered.

“Oh, go on you two!” Hermione laughed and shooshed her friends off down the hallway.

“Well girlfriend, I gotta leave you too; I have a project to finish for potions. I’ll probably
be in the library all night trying to finish it,” Pavarati groaned.

“I could help!” Hermione stated, wanting something to do.

“Nah, it’s okay; I don’t mind doing it myself. Besides, I gotta do some of my homework by myself
sooner or later.” Hermione giggled and watched her roommate head off towards the library.

“Well, I guess I might as well go to sleep.”

Hermione walked through the portrait hole. She wasn’t in the mood to hang out in the common room
tonight. Even though it was still early, she climbed the tower to her dormitory and headed for her
room.

‘I don’t get it. Why didn’t Harry send me anything? He knows that today’s my birthday so why
didn’t he…’

Hermione’s thoughts were spinning as she pushed open the large, wooden door to her bedroom. She
went to her dresser and looked for something to wear to bed. Her eyes skimmed through the few
nightgowns she had tucked in her bottom drawer, but then she happened up something that made her
heart flutter.

“I almost forgot I had these!”

She drew out a pair of plaid, flannel pajamas. They were covered with red and green patches, and
Hermione remembered that Harry had given her these as a Christmas present back during their fifth
year. She’d worn them a few times and loved how comfortable they were. Although, when the girls
started teasing her about how often she wore something that Harry had bought for her, she put them
away and forgot about them. Smiling, Hermione put the pajamas on top of her dresser and began
undressing.

On the opposite side of the room, Harry stood silently under his Invisibility Cloak. The moment
she’d entered the room he felt his heart leap into his throat. She was even more than beautiful
than he remembered. He saw her take out the pajamas that he’d given her and turned around as she
went to change her clothes.

“Harry,” Hermione sighed as she brushed her hair. She looked at herself in the mirror, and her
eyes happened upon a small note taped to the bottom of the glass.

“What’s this?” Opening the card, it read, ‘Close your eyes and make a wish.’ “Those girls are
impossible, but what the heck?” Hermione closed her eyes and let her heart speak for her.

‘I wish…I wish that Harry was here right now.’

Harry watched her carefully, and he smiled when she found his note. The moment he saw her eyes
close, he made his move. Dropping the Invisibility Cloak on the floor, he made his way towards
her.

Hermione swore that she could feel Harry near her; his presence seemed so strong.

“Open your eyes, Hermione,” a soft voice said. The girl almost swallowed her tongue; it couldn’t
be!

Hermione slowly opened her eyes, and what she saw made tears appear in her eyes. She could see
him…in the mirror. Harry was standing behind her - his eyes shining lovingly at her.

“Is it…is it really you?” she gasped as her hands trembled. His hands came up on her shoulders,
and she shuttered at the contact.

“Turn around, sweetheart.” Hermione turned around and looked into the most beautiful pair of
emerald eyes.

“Harry!” she cried and jumped into his arms. She grappled him by the neck and started kissing
him.

“Herm…what…whoa…hold it…hmmph…” Harry was trying to fend her off slightly, but he lost his
balance, and they toppled onto her bed.

“It’s you…it’s really you!” Hermione shouted and kissed him again.

Harry wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. Oh, how he’d missed this? She felt so
soft and warm on top of his chest.

“Happy Birthday, Hermione,” he said with a wide smile. Tears streamed down the young woman’s
cheeks.

“This is the best birthday present I ever got! Oh Harry, I missed you.”

“And I missed you.” Her mouth came down on his, and he rolled his girlfriend onto her back.
Harry nibbled her jaw line, causing her to giggle, and then moved down the side of her neck.

“I love you, Harry.” He stopped his kissing and came back up to her face. Her statement was so
full of warmth.

“And I love you, Hermione.”

Harry claimed her mouth in a possessive assault, and he held her down to the bed with his body
weight. She didn’t complain one bit. Her tongue met his in a familiar dance, and his arms tightened
around her.

Hermione could feel a fire growing inside her; it was a passion that burned for only one person
– the young man who was holding her. She arched into his body and moaned as he pressed against her
in all the right places.

“Hermione…stop…please…” Harry groaned as she rocked under him, but she would have none of it.
The long separation had taught her that he was a part of her. She needed him in every way.

“Harry…all I wanted today was you. Please, grant me my wish, I want you. When you were gone, I
was miserable. I need you as much as I need air to breath. I need you, Harry; I need you in every
way.”

“Hermione, are you sure? Don’t say this just because we’re back together again?” She shook her
head emphatically and gave him a sweet smile.

“I’m for you, Harry Potter – for you and only you.” He couldn’t believe her words; she was so
trusting of him. She was giving herself to him and only him; it was enough to make him cry.

“Please Harry, just for this night, be mine…all mine.” He shook his head and smiled at her.

“No Hermione, not just for tonight, always.”

“Always, my love.” Harry caught her mouth with a hungry kiss, and Hermione tugged him down into
her waiting arms.

“Oops, almost forgot!” Harry gasped.

“What?” Hermione asked with her face flushed. He put a finger to her lips to silence her. Harry
turned his head and extended his hand.

“Lochanus!” At his command, the door to the room was sealed with a magical lock. Harry snapped
his fingers, and the candles on the walls went out.

“Ooooh, are you planning to keep me here?” Hermione giggled.

“Just don’t want any interruptions,” Harry replied and turned back towards her. She wrapped her
arms around his neck and smiled seductively.

“No more secrets, Harry, no holding back.” He lowered himself into her embrace and kissed her
gently.

“Never again, Hermione.” He kissed her again, and the world fell away into the darkness. This
night was theirs, and no one could ever take it away.

Hermione’s hands trembled as she tugged the green sweater out of his khakis. Harry raised
himself up off her and helped pull it off. A few seconds later and his t-shirt followed suit.
Hermione ran her hands down his arms, and she felt him tense under her touch. Seeing him blush made
her feel better; he was as nervous as she was.

“Your turn, sweetheart.” She nodded her consent, and Harry unbuttoned her pajama top. He slowly
peeled it off her shoulders and kissed the peachy skin that was revealed.

“God Herm, you’re so soft. Please don’t tell me I’m dreaming!”

“You’re not dreaming, Harry, we’re really here.” Feeling emboldened, Hermione brought her hands
up and open her flannel top. Her lover almost fainted.

“So beautiful…” Harry murmured, and he clutched her in his arms. He caught her mouth with a
hungry kiss and pressed her down into the mattress.

“Oh Harry!” Hermione gasped as her bare chest pressed up against his. Her heart was thundering
inside her chest, and for once, her mind was not doing the thinking. “Touch me, please!” she
gasped.

Harry didn’t know where to start; it was all too wonderful; he couldn’t choose. Finally deciding
to just go one step at a time, he began at her neck. He laid butterfly kisses against her skin, and
Hermione craned her neck to give him a better vantage point. Of its own volition, Harry’s right
hand came up to cup her breast.

“Ohhhhh!!!” Hermione’s body was swamped with unknown sensations as his hand worked on her
breast.

“Am I hurting you?” Harry asked and loosened his grip.

“No!” she gasped. “Please, don’t stop.” He resumed his caress, and Hermione lay back as she
submitted to him.

Harry made his way down her neck and once again kissed each of her shoulders. His lips made
their way down her sternum, and he could feel her beginning to tremble once again. By now, his
other hand had come up to toy with other breast, and Hermione was letting out a soft, continuous
moan.

“Herm, tell me if this is okay?” Harry asked and kissed her right breast.

“Yes!” she cried out. Smiling slyly, he kissed her again but this time just above her breast.
“No Harry, where you were before!”

“Oh really?” he asked and kissed the soft flesh. “Or would you like it better here?” and he
kissed her small, pink nipple.

“Harry!” Her cry echoed through the room, and he chuckled softly.

“I’d say we have a winner,” he laughed and kissed the hard nub once again.

“Oh yes, we do!” Hermione grabbed two handfuls of his messy hair and pressed him against her
breast. Accepting her invitation, Harry opened his mouth and gently suckled her inviting mound.
Before long, he had Hermione writhing on top of the sheets.

‘I never you she was so responsive. That’s my girl though. Always the sensitive one!’ Harry
moved to her opposite breast and paid equal respects. He was enjoying giving her pleasure. That
is…Hermione’s leg accidentally rode up between his legs.

“Uh!” he groaned and released her from his mouth. Hermione looked down at him and realized where
her leg had just hit. She rubbed him again, and Harry let out another groan.

“No fair!” he gasped. She smiled wryly at him.

“All right, Mr. Potter, time for a change.” Without warning, she flipped him over, and Harry
nearly banged his head on the bedpost. Hermione straddled his hips and bent down to kiss him
deeply.

She stretched out across him, laying her body down on top of his. Harry’s arms wrapped around
her, and he tried to get used to holding a half-naked Hermione in his embrace.

“Always have to be on top don’t you?” he laughed.

“Are you complaining?” she fired back. He shook his head. “Thought so.”

Hermione wiggled her way down his body, and Harry moaned as her soft silkiness rubbed down his
exterior. Her scent filled his nostrils. It was like their foreplay had amplified his senses
because he could feel every nip or graze of her teeth as she slid down his torso. He could smell
her intoxicating female aroma, and it nearly drove him mad with need.

“Well now,” Hermione said and licked her lips; she’d found her target. “Looks like I do have an
effect on you.” For emphasis, she ran her hand over the hard mound on the front of his pants.

“Herm, you have an effect on me every time I see you!” Harry gasped.

“Do I? I’ll have to remember that.” She petted him gently and watched as his head fell back.

Harry barely even noticed when Hermione unbuckled his belt and unzipped his pants. He did,
however, notice when she grabbed them and his boxers and pulled them down his legs.

“Oh my!” Hermione’s eyes went wide when she saw him for the first time. Harry gulped, and his
entire body turned a deep shade of pink. She turned her head away shyly, and her face flushed as
well.

“Sweetheart…” Harry sighed and extended his hand, “…come here.” Hermione took his offered hand,
and he pulled her back up on top of him. He kissed her softly and laid her back against the
pillows.

“We can slow down,” he said softly. Hermione shook her head emphatically.

“No, I don’t want to. It’s just…I’ve never…you know…seen someone like this before…” Harry cupped
her cheek in his hand.

“It’s okay, Hermione, I haven’t either.” She smiled at him warmly, and he kissed her for
encouragement.

Hermione guided his hands to her waist, and Harry pulled off her flannel pants. He looked down
at the soft, white panties covering the last hidden part of her. She looked so sweet and innocent
like this - an angel in every sense of the word. By now, he was trembling as well, but his hands
moved back up, and before he lost his nerve, removed her underwear.

Hermione blushed deeply as she saw his eyes traveling over her body. She’d never let a man see
her like this before. She could see the desire burning brightly in his emerald pools but alongside
it was the love and compassion that he felt for her.

Harry wanted to drop to his knees and thank God for giving him this beautiful woman. She was
exquisite – positively breathtaking. Instinctively, his hips pressed down into hers, and they both
let out low moans.

“Make love to me, Harry.” He gulped inaudibly but lowered his hips into the soft cradle of her
thighs. Pressing himself against her entrance, his head swooned as he felt her warmth simmering
under the surface of her skin.

“Are you sure you want this?” Harry asked one last time. Hermione smiled and caressed his face.
She pulled him down and gave him a kiss that he would never forget; it was all he needed.

With as much tenderness as he had, Harry carefully pushed into her waiting body. Hermione closed
her eyes in wonder as a slew of feelings washed over her. She could feel her body spreading to
welcome him inside her, and it felt like she was welcoming him home. Suddenly, she realized…she
was. She was welcoming her hero home into her arms forever. Never again would she let him be
alone.

Harry was worried that it would hurt their first time. He met a little resistance inside her,
but it easily gave way, and at last, he was completely sheathed inside her.

Hermione felt it when her virginity gave way. It had hurt a little bit, but it was nothing
compared to feeling of having Harry completely inside her. Her final wall had crumbled; she was his
now – always.

“Are you okay?” he asked, kissing her cheeks and watching for any signs of pain.

“I’m fine, Harry, no more worries. You won’t hurt me; I promise you that.”

Her words brought him encouragement, and the last of his fears faded at the love shining in her
eyes. He was hers now – totally and completely.

“I love you, Hermione Granger.”

“And I love you, Harry Potter.” Wrapping his arms around her, he slowly began to move within
her.

It was like a dance as they moved together – sometimes he led, and she followed, while other
times, she led, and he followed.

‘God Potter, this has to be what heaven feels like!’ Harry thought himself as he thrust in and
out of her tight channel. Her mouth rarely left his as they made love like it was their last night
on Earth.

Hermione felt tears forming in her eyes, and she cried into his mouth. It was so wonderful; he
was so wonderful!

“Oh gosh, why are you crying? Am I hurting you?” Harry gasped in horror.

“No…uh…no Harry, I’m just so…so happy. This is so perfect!” Her words nearly made him fly.

As much as the two of them wanted to remain in their heated paradise for eternity, nature had
designed even this to have its limits. With one last deep thrust, Hermione exploded in his
arms.

“HARRY!” she cried for the whole world to hear. Her body shuttered, and she drenched his shaft
in liquid heat. It was too much for the young man to handle.

“HERMIONE!” he moaned. As her name formed on his lips, he spilled himself inside of her, pouring
his life into the woman who was his life.

Later that night, Pavarati and Lavender returned to their room. Upon touching the door handle,
Lavender felt a shock on her hand, but the old wooden door creaked and opened for them.

“What was that?” she gasped.

“I don’t know,” Pavarati replied.

Entering their room, the two girls prepared to hit the sack when Lavender caught sight of
something that made a smile spread across her face.

“Look!” she whispered to her friend. Lavender turned her head, and her eyes widened.

There lay Harry and Hermione wrapped up in her blankets; their faces displaying a look of
complete and utter contentment. Hermione had her head on his shoulder, and Harry’s arms were
wrapped tightly around her. The sheets came up to just below Hermione’s shoulders, and Harry’s
chest was partially bare. It was quite apparent to the two girls what had happened here
tonight.

“They look so cute!” Pavarati giggled.

“Yeah, it’s about time,” Lavender said with a warm smile.

Harry’s head shifted, and his eyes opened halfway. They shot open when he saw the two girls
standing there with wide grins on their faces. Raising his eyebrows in question, he merely returned
their grin and snapped his fingers. Two curtains magically appeared and slid shut in front of
Hermione’s bed, effectively barring any prying eyes from peeping in.

“What was that?” a half-awake Hermione asked. Harry kissed her forehead and buried his face in
her hair.

“Nothing sweetheart, go back to sleep.” She immediately complied, and he couldn’t help but join
her.



10. Truth Revealed
------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Hermione Granger awoke from the best night sleep she’d ever had. Her brown eyes fluttered open,
and she snuggled closer to the warmth next to her. It was then that she noticed that someone was in
her bed with her, and the only thing she was wearing was the blanket on top of her.

At first, she was apprehensive, but then her memories of the night before kicked in, and a warm
smile spread across her lips. Lifting her head, she saw a familiar face tucked into her pillow.
Harry was still sleeping, but his arms were wrapped tightly around her.

‘Hmm, now how to wake him up.’

Thinking of the perfect idea, Hermione wiggled around until she was lying on top of him. Bending
down, she let her lips brush against his, hoping that her Prince Charming would awaken under her
kiss.

It took only a moment before Harry responded, and he caught her mouth in a tender kiss. Opening
his eyes, he was greeted by two big, brown eyes, and the greatest smile that he’d ever seen.

“G’morning sleepyhead,” Hermione giggled.

“Good morning indeed. What a pleasant site to wake up to.”

“Smooth talker.” She shifted her body again, and Harry sighed as her soft curves brushed against
his sensitive skin.

“You’re wonderful, sweetheart.”

“Thank you, you’re not too bad yourself.” Harry brought her closer to him and kissed her lips
gently.

“Want to stay here for the rest of the day?” His eyebrows quirked up seductively, and he grinned
wryly.

“Now, that’s a serious temptation…especially since you can’t move unless I get off you.”

“Says who?” Harry sat up, and Hermione ended up sitting astride his lap. She was surprised at
his latent strength. He moved back against the headboard and situated her across his legs.

“You’re full of surprises,” she laughed.

“You have no idea…” His hands began roaming around her body, and Hermione felt the sensations
beginning to rekindle inside her. His touch was so gentle…so soothing. His caress was like a
whisper in the wind.

“Hermione!” a voice called.

The mood was completely broken, and Hermione’s head snapped around in horror. That was
Lavender’s voice! She calmed down slightly when she saw two large curtains in front of her bed, but
how had they gotten there?

“Y-y-yes?” she said hesitantly, hoping that her friend wouldn’t open the curtains.

“What’s wrong? You sound tired. Did Harry wear you out last night?”

“Lavender!”

“He…he…he…just kidding. I’m going down to the common room to see Ron; I’ll be back after lunch
okay?”

“Sure, I’ll see you then.” Hermione’s head fell down on Harry’s shoulder, and she sulked.

“Oh brother, now everyone in Hogwarts will know that you’re here.”

“No, they won’t.”

“But how can you be sure?” Hermione asked looking at him worriedly. Harry just gave her a goofy
smile.

“Remember that spell that I cast last night?”

“Yes, why?”

“When I sealed the room, I put a special sanction on my lock. The door could only be opened by
either you, me, or someone who would not disclose what they saw.”

“But…does that mean that Lavender saw us…” Hermione’s face nearly turned purple.

“Relax Herm, she and Pavarati walked in after we’d fallen asleep. They woke me up, and I put
those curtains up to keep out their prying eyes.”

“You’re a genius, Harry!” and she hugged him tightly. His kissed the top of her head.

“Well, I am in love with the smartest girl at Hogwarts.”

As happy as Hermione was, she could feel something nagging at her brain. She knew that Harry
couldn’t stay here indefinitely.

“When do you have to leave?” she asked while drawing designs on his chest.

“In a few hours. I need to go before someone finds me. I could just imagine what would happen if
Malfoy or Snape found me here.”

“I don’t want you to go!” Hermione gasped and hugged him tightly. Harry was surprised at her
sudden outburst but clutched her tightly.

“Sweetheart, I’m never far away from you. I know that this is hard; it’s hard for me too. I hope
that this will be over soon, but until then, we both have to persevere.”

After holding each other for another hour, Harry and Hermione got out of bed and dressed. Harry
gathered his few belongings and picked up his Invisibility Cloak off the floor.

“Do me a favor? Say goodbye to Ron for me?”

“Sure, but I know that he’d want to tell you goodbye too.”

“I should go before everyone gets out of lunch; it’ll be easier to slip out.” Hermione buried
herself in his arms.

“Tell me that I’ll see you again…soon.”

“I can’t make any guarantees, sweetheart, but I promise you this ‘You will always be a part of
me’.”

“And you a part of me.” Hermione knew how true that was – especially after their actions the
night before. A part of Harry would always be inside her. He drew her close, and their lips touched
in the most romantic of kisses.

“I love you.”

“I love you.” Reluctantly, Harry let her go and grabbed his cloak. “Goodbye for now,” and he
quietly slipped out the door.

“Until the next time, my love.”

Springtime around Hogwarts meant several things: trees and plants growing back after a long
winter’s rest, warmer weather returning to the castle, and for sixth and seventh year students, the
N.E.W.T.S. had arrived. They were every Hogwarts’ student nightmare, but they were required for
graduation. The sixth years took it as a practice, but the seventh years were for real.

Spring was also a time of romance at Hogwarts. Ron and Lavender had become an item over the
passed several months. Helping out Harry and Hermione so much had led to their own kindling
romance.

Meanwhile…in a darkened house on the far side of Britain, a hooded figure approached its
master.

“My lord?”

“What is it, Wormtail, I’m busy right now.” Wormtail, better known as Peter Pettigrew, cowered
under the burning red eyes of his master.

“Sir, our informants have completed their intelligence; the rumors were true.”

Lord Voldemort stood up from the large chair that he was in and let out a sadistic laugh. His
ghostly white skin and bald head made him looked like a zombie.

“When Lucius told me that he had gotten Harry Potter expelled from Hogwarts, I couldn’t believe
it. I was sure that Dumbledore or Fudge had some plan behind all this. Are you certain that it is
true?”

“Yes, my lord, Lucius has spoken with his son many times over the passed few months, and Harry
Potter has not been seen at Hogwarts once since just after the New Year.”

“Something just doesn’t add up about this. What’s our status on our plans?”

“My lord, your followers are poised to raid Azkaban within the next week. We have received no
word from the giants however. The trolls will be easy enough to control, but the centaurs will not
cooperate with us.”

“No matter, neither the giants nor the centaurs would dare to openly oppose me; they’re not
strong enough.” Voldemort smiled an evil grin.

“So…Harry Potter was kicked out of Hogwarts. Well then, I guess I could kill him the easy way or
the hard way.”

“What do mean, master?” Wormtail asked.

“It’s quite simple. If Potter is no longer at Hogwarts, then he is no longer under Dumbledore’s
protection. That old goat has been a thorn in my side long enough. We could hunt the boy down and
kill him, but it would take a good number of our resources. On the other hand, we could make him
come to us by taking away what he loves most.”

“Sir? You don’t mean…”

“Avery…Crab…Goyle!” Voldemort shouted, and three men appeared at his command.

“Listen carefully, all of you. If Hogwarts’ tradition hasn’t changed, the entire Ministry of
Magic attends their graduations. It would be a perfect target for us.”

“But, my lord, if I may, what does this have to do with Potter?” Avery asked.

“You imbecile, don’t you see. That boy loves Hogwarts. If it is danger, he will come back to
help; it’s in his nature. Yes, I can kill two birds with one stone. Potter won’t be able to resist
coming to save his friends. I can kill him in front of the entire Ministry of Magic; that will be
the end of their insolence.”

“An excellent plan, master,” Wormtail quickly agreed.

“Shut-up, you pathetic excuse for a man. Avery, contact Lucius and inform him of our plans.
Crab, Goyle, summon my followers. Our time has finally come.”

Hermione sat beside Ron in Advanced Transfiguration. They were supposed to turn the pillow in
front of them into a cat or some other type of small animal. She was trying her best, but every
time, the cat came out with either no legs or only one or two.

“Dammit, why can’t I do this?” she hissed. Ron was taken aback; Hermione never swore.

“Relax Herm, it’s just practice okay. Take a deep breath and calm down. Come on, you can do this
stuff in your sleep.”

“Sorry Ron, I’m just a little on edge right now.” The red-haired young man cracked a small grin
at her.

“Don’t mention it…” he leaned down and whispered in her ear, “…I miss him too.” Hermione perked
up and smiled brightly. She picked up her wand and went back to transfiguring her cat/pillow.

The door to the classroom opened and in walked Professor Dumbledore himself. The old man pushed
his glasses up on his nose and smiled at the class.

“Excuse me, Professor McGonagall, could I see Miss Granger please?” Hermione almost swallowed
her tongue. Had she just heard what she thought she heard?

“Certainly, Professor,” replied Minerva McGonagall who had a surprised look on her face as well.
Hermione gathered her things and followed the headmaster out of the room.

“Come with me,” he merely said and led the young woman down the hall.

Hermione remained silent as she followed Dumbledore down the various hallways and passages.
Finally arriving at a large gargoyle statue, he whispered ‘lemon drop’, and the statue moved
aside.

“Come inside, Miss Granger.” Hermione had always wondered what his office had looked like, and
she readily followed.

Harry had told her a few times what Dumbledore had in his office, but she was still stunned by
the beautiful collection of paintings and trinkets around the large room.

“What did you want to see me about, Professor Dumbledore?” Hermione asked, trying to keep the
nervousness out of her voice.

“Relax, my dear, you’re not in trouble; I merely brought you here to talk that is all.” She
visibly relaxed.

“What do wish to know?”

“Ah, I believe that is the question that you have for me?” he said with a toothy grin. “You have
a great many questions, child, now you may ask them.”

“Well…I…” Hermione looked down at her hands. There were so many things buzzing through her mind
that she couldn’t decide.

“Perhaps I should start by telling what I told Harry so long ago. The true reason why he
survived Voldemort’s attack all those years ago.” The young woman’s jaw dropped.

“Sir…why would you tell me this?” His smile only widened.

“I sense a growing sadness within you, Hermione. It has been there since Harry left here, and it
has affected both you and your performance since. Tell me, why do you miss him so much?”

“Because…I…I love him, professor. And he loves me as well. We both tried to ignore it for so
long, but when he was hurt, I couldn’t stand not telling him anymore. We tried to keep our feelings
private, but I’m sure that you know that didn’t exactly happen.” Dumbledore chuckled lightly.

“You two remind of James and Lily during their sixth year. That was when their relationship
became serious, but it wasn’t nearly as unusual.”

“Hermione, listen to me carefully, I am going to tell you the same thing that I told Harry, but
I must ask you not to tell anyone about it. I held him to the same promise, and he kept it.”

“I promise, sir,” she replied.

“Very well.” Dumbledore proceeded to tell Hermione what had happened to Harry the night that
Voldemort attacked his home – why he really survived, what happened with Gemstar, and why his power
was growing so rapidly.

Hermione could only listen in wonder as Dumbledore continued with his story. She’d always
associated the unbelievable with Harry Potter, but this was well beyond that.

“So, Harry’s abilities will continue to increase as he ages?”

“Yes, but they will climax on the day he matures. I knew that it would be only a matter of time
before Voldemort returned to kill Harry so he and I agreed to a plan.”

“What do mean ‘a plan’?” Hermione asked with a concerned look.

“Let me explain…”

*Flashback to Harry and Dumbledore’s first meeting*

“Harry, listen to me carefully. The plan that I have in mind will put you at great risk, but it
is the only alternative that we have left. I intend to draw Voldemort out of hiding.”

“How do you plan on accomplishing that?”

“We must give him a ripe target; it must either you or Hogwarts. But if we gave him both, he
can’t resist. Harry…that is why I must ask you…to leave Hogwarts.”

“Leave! But this is the closest I’ve ever had to a home.” Dumbledore hated having to ask him
this, but he had no other choice.

“Harry, listen carefully, if you were to leave, I know that Voldemort would get word of it. He
would attack Hogwarts because he knows that you would come back to protect your friends. That way,
he can destroy both you and the school at once. After that whole fiasco with the TriWizard
Tournament and what you told me about him, Voldemort believes that you are no threat to him, but
you are still a nuisance regardless.”

Harry sat staring at his hands. Professor Dumbledore was asking him to give up the one thing
that made him proud of who he was. But at the same time, he felt responsible for Voldemort’s
actions. He would die if the evil wizard destroyed Hogwarts.

“All right, sir, what do want me to do?”

“Good, my boy, you’ve grown in a man.”

“I don’t want to leave here, professor, but if helps to stop Voldemort, I’ll do it.”

“I’m glad to here that, but there is more to my plan. You cannot just disappear from Hogwarts;
Voldemort would recognize my actions in an instant. The only other option is for you to be forcibly
removed from here.”

“You mean expelled!”

“Exactly. If you were expelled from Hogwarts, not only would Voldemort’s lackeys carry it back
to him, but they would probably legitimize it even more. The only thing is, I’m not quite sure how
to go about it. Minister Fudge won’t allow you to be simply ‘thrown out’ – not with your
reputation. It would have to be for something incontrovertible.”

“Well, I won’t kill anybody if that’s what you mean.” Dumbledore chuckled at his comment.

“Don’t worry, Harry, I would never ask that of you, and frankly, I doubt you’d do it
anyway.”

“What should we do then?”

“We will bide our time for the moment. As I told you, I believe that Voldemort will not attack
until the summertime. But we must act by Christmas, or there won’t be enough time.”

“Listen Harry, while you are gone, I’m going to arrange for you to continue learning magic. You
must be trained to duel and learn to defend yourself properly against high-level magic. I could be
fired for even suggesting this, but I trust your judgment. I know that you will learn to control
your power.”

“Professor Dumbledore…I know that I haven’t always followed the rules, but I try to respect what
you’ve built here at Hogwarts. I know that the Ministry of Magic doesn’t always like me, but
I…”

“It’s all right, Harry, I understand. I know that you act on your instincts; it is a quality
that few wizards possess at such a young age.”

“Sir, if I may ask, why am I being ask to do this? I mean, I know I was given a gift and so
forth, but aren’t you strong enough to defeat Voldemort? Haven’t the two of you always equaled each
other?”

Dumbledore closed his eyes and removed his glasses. He had hoped that Harry wouldn’t have asked
that question.

“To be frank, my boy, the answer is no. In my prime, yes, Voldemort and I were equals in
abilities and power. He chose to learn spells and curses that I did not, but I was still able to
counteract him. Now however, I’ve grown much older, and from what you’ve told me, that evil wizard
has been reborn to the height of his power.”

“You mean you can’t beat him!” Harry gasped hardly believing his mentor’s words.

“I can slow him down, but I cannot defeat him. That is the only reason why I have asked this of
you. I wouldn’t dare putting you in danger if could take Voldemort out myself. I and the other
professors can protect Hogwarts and the students, but if he shows his true power there is nothing
that I can do. My only hope is that you can realize the true potential that resides in you.”

Harry Potter sat there stunned speechless. Not even Dumbledore, the greatest good wizard that
the world knew was not capable of destroying the Dark Lord. It was all up to him. The young man sat
there feeling numb. His hands were trembling, and he crossed his arms as his mind raced with
images. Once again, he would have to face the dark wizard himself.

*End flashback*

Hermione’s jaw was stuck to the floor by the time Dumbledore finished his explanation. She’d
always thought that no matter what Harry was destined to become that Dumbledore would be there to
protect him. Now, she realized that the headmaster could no longer shield her lover from the
darkness that wanted to destroy him.

“Professor Dumbledore, what should we do now? Shouldn’t Hogwarts be evacuated?”

“We cannot make any sudden moves, or Voldemort will not attack. When the time comes, the
students will be safe that I promise you, but for now, things must remain normal.”

“Sir, if I may ask, just where is Harry right now? He hasn’t told me in any of his letters.”

“As well he should in case Voldemort’s followers intercepted Hedwig. He is somewhere safe – not
even the Dark Lord can find out where he is. Harry is preparing himself for the challenge ahead;
that is all I can say.”

“You mean he’s…”

“Yes, Harry will be returning to Hogwarts shortly…as will Voldemort. My guess is that his target
will be our graduation ceremony.”

“Of course, the entire Ministry of Magic attends it,” Hermione gasped.

“Well done, Hermione, I see you understand.”

“Professor, why did you tell me all this?”

“Because I felt that you deserved to know. I could tell that it was killing Harry to hide
something from you so I decided to let you know. Do not tell him that you know his secret,
Hermione.”

“But why sir?”

“Harry is under tremendous pressure right now. If you told him what you know now, he would put
himself under even more stress, and he wouldn’t be able to concentrate. He needs to remain focused,
but he’ll become distracted if he feels that you’re worrying about him.”

“I…I understand. I won’t tell him then.”

“I know this is hard, Hermione, but you must understand. Right now, Harry Potter may be the only
hope that the world of magic has left. Myself and other professors can support him, but he is the
one who must make the choice. It is up to him to decide how far his magic goes.”

“Professor Dumbledore, thank you for trusting me with this; I promise not to tell anyone.”

“Thank you, Miss Granger, you may go now.”

“Yes sir.”

Hermione walked out of Dumbledore’s office and felt her chest tighten. Why…why did Harry always
have to face the deadliest wizard of all time?

‘Because he’s Harry Potter!’ her own mind screamed back at her.

“Harry…” she whispered out and felt her heart tense, “…please, my love, come back to me
soon.”

Meanwhile, at the house of Albus Dumbledore, Harry’s training was entering its final level.

“All right, Harry, go!” Sirius shouted at him.

Harry Potter was seated on his Firebolt waiting for the order. He shot up into the air while his
three trainers attacked him from both above and below. His task was to dodge their attacks and
curses without any counter magic.

“Okay, boy, here we go!” Moody’s wand emitted a pillar of fire, and Harry rolled over on his
broom to avoid it.

Lupin and Sirius joined in, and the three men held nothing back as they attacked the young
wizard.

Harry barrel-rolled, banked, and swerved in and out as he ducked a lightning bolt, then a giant
boulder, then a magically created cyclone, and lastly a combined attack consisting of a tidal wave
barreling through a wind tunnel.

“The boy can fly!” Remus said admirably as Harry avoided the attacks.

It began again, but this time, Remus and Moody levitated into the air. Harry stopped moving and
hovered about fifty feet above the ground.

“You shouldn’t have stopped moving boy!” Moody shouted as he launched a fireball at Harry. Lupin
launched a fury of razor-sharp icicles at him from the other side.

‘Come on…come on…a little closer…’ Harry murmured to himself. He was deliberately waiting.

At the last moment, Harry propelled himself off his broom and into midair. The Firebolt then
moved out of the way. The two spells hit and cancelled each other out.

“Accio Firebolt!” The broom came at its master’s summons, and Harry remounted it.

“Expelliarmus!” Harry disarmed his two aggressors then zoomed down to where Sirius was waiting
on the ground.

‘The boy never learns; you never attack head-on!’ Sirius groaned as he saw Harry heading right
for him. ‘Very well, if I must.’

Harry continued to advance, and he carefully watched the older man’s movements.

‘Easy, Harry, wait for him to make the first move.’ The minute he saw Sirius’ wand raise he knew
what was coming.

“Exploda!” Sirius shouted. The spot where Harry Potter sat on his broom exploded in a fury of
flames.

“Sorry, my boy, but I’ve told you not to do that,” Sirius said with a shake of his head.
Suddenly, a small pop was heard.

“I remember!” Sirius snapped around at the sound of Harry’s voice. The sly dog, he’d
disapparated. “Petrificas Totales!” It was too late. Sirius’ body came to a halt, and he hit the
ground with thud.

“That was a little too close,” Harry sighed and took a deep breath. He waved his hand, and
Sirius’ body was released.

“Well done, Harry, excellent misdirection.” Remus stated as he and Moody walked up to the
pair.

“Blimey, I’d say the boy’s finally getting it!” Moody grinned and let out a drunken laugh.

Harry smiled in appreciation, but he knew that his time was running out. It was only a few more
weeks until it was time. Time for him to return to Hogwarts. Time for him to face Voldemort one
last time.



11. Training Complete
---------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

The Great Hall was usually a bustling place at breakfast, but this morning, the place was almost
dead silent. Everyone had their faces stuffed into newspapers; their eyes being caught by the
front-page headlines:

Jailbreak at Azkaban. All Prisoners escaped.

Now this was enough to make anyone cringe, but what really made their skin crawl was the picture
from the wizard prison. Because…above the broken stonewalls, floating in the sky like a demon, was
the Dark Mark. Only one person used that mark – Voldemort.

“I don’t believe it. How could anyone break into Azkaban?” shouted a sixth year Hufflepuff.

“Why is that ugly skull up in the sky?” a second year Ravenclaw asked fearfully.

“Is Voldemort really alive?” a fifth year Slytherin gasped. Several students cringed at the use
of the dark wizard’s name.

“Dammit!” Ron Weasley groaned and slammed down the newspaper he was reading. “How could this
happen? That place is supposed to be impenetrable!”

“And it’s guarded by those dementor things too isn’t it?” Lavender stated with a shiver.

Hermione brushed some of her hair out of her face. Her eyes never left the picture of the Dark
Mark. She’d seen that hideous thing before and had no call to see it again.

“Harry was right…he his alive. Think about it, You-Know-Who can offer the dementors anything
they want. They feed off people’s happy thoughts and emotions. He could give them a buffet of
helpless victims just waiting to be sucked dry.”

“Jeez Herm, did you have to be so blunt?” Ron gulped.

“Your attention please!” It was Professor McGonagall. All eyes turned towards the long table at
the front of the hall. Professor Dumbledore stood from his chair.

“I ask that all of you try to remain calm. Yes, this incident is very serious, but you all must
remain strong. The term will be over in few days, and each of you will be returning home. We have
taken special measures to ensure your safety so do not be frightened.”

You could have heard Draco Malfoy snickering from a mile away.

“In regards to graduation, it will still take place. It has been a tradition at Hogwarts that
the Ministry of Magic be in attendance for the ceremony, but recent events have made that quite
impossible. However, Minister Fudge has promised me that he himself will be here to congratulate
our finishing students. I wish the sixth and seventh year students well on their exams. That is
all.”

After Dumbledore finished talking, most of the students calmed down, but everyone was still a
little on edge.

That night, Hermione wrote a letter to Harry telling him the news about Azkaban. Telling him to
be careful, she strapped it to Hedwig’s leg, and the snowy owl flew out into the night.

Harry already knew about the events at Azkaban as Dumbledore had sent a message to Sirius and
Lupin not more than five minutes after he himself had found out. Upon showing it to Moody, the
three men increased the intensity of Harry’s training a hundred-fold. By the end of each day, all
four of them were exhausted, yet they got up and did it again the following morning.

At last, the final day of training had arrived.

Harry was locked into an all-out battle with his three friends. They didn’t give him an inch and
attacked with everything they had. Between shielding fireballs and thunderbolts from Remus and
Moody, Harry was very busy. Add to the fact that Sirius was making the entire ground shake made it
nearly impossible.

Giving up was not in his nature, and Harry set about eliminating his adversaries. First, he
pointed his wand at the ground, and what seemed like a mole digging through the earth shot its way
towards Sirius. Upon reaching his feet, the spell exploded upwards and flung the man back onto the
grass.

Harry’s next target was Remus. Swinging his wand in overhead arch, Harry shot a stream off water
out of the fountain in the courtyard and proceeded to douse his former teacher with about a hundred
gallons of water. By soaking his opponent’s wand, it made it almost impossible for him to cast a
good fire spell.

The final opponent was Moody, and he was the trickiest of all, but Harry had a little trick of
his own planned. Waiting for the old man to attack, he reached into his robes for something. Moody
threw a thunderbolt at him, and Harry pulled out a small piece of wire, which had a leather
handle.

“What are you doing boy?” Moody demanded.

“Winning,” and Harry blasted him with a wind spell, throwing him back into a nearby bush. The
young man stopped to catch his breath. He looked to see his robes tattered and slightly charred,
but he was alive – that was the important thing.

“Well, that’s just about everything,” Remus Lupin coughed as he tried to dry himself off.

“Good work, Harry, that’s all we can teach you,” Sirius said as he walked up.

“Blimey, ya dun good, Potter!” Moody laughed. “What did you use on me anyway?”

“Oh, just this,” and he handed the wire to the old man.

“Wait a minute, is this a…”

“A lightning rod,” Harry finished for him. “The leather handle kept me insulated.”

“You mean I got beat by a Muggle invention!” Moody nearly shouted.

“Yes, my friend, you did,” Remus laughed.

Harry put away his wand and cracked his neck; he was as stiff as a board. Man, what he wouldn’t
give for one of Hermione’s massages. She had the best hands.

‘Whoa, easy Potter, save it for another time,’ he warned himself. Meanwhile, Sirius came up to
him and put a hand on his shoulder.

“Are you ready?”

Harry was tempted to say ‘As ready as I’ll ever be’, but that wasn’t something he wanted to say.
For the first time in his life, Harry wasn’t afraid of facing Voldemort. Sure he respected the dark
wizard’s abilities, but the old fear and apprehension that went along with fighting him was gone.
Harry looked at his three trainers and said something that made them smile.

“I’ve been ready for this my whole life.”



12. Graduation Day
------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Graduation day at Hogwarts was a very important day. The graduates were all getting fitted for
their gowns – each of them wearing their house’s colors. It was also the second to last day for
continuing students.

Ron and Hermione were sitting in the Great Hall anxiously awaiting a letter from Harry. They
hadn’t heard from him since Hermione’s letter, but it usually took Hedwig a few days each way.
Hermione was a nervous wreck because she knew something no other student knew and what this day was
going to bring.

“Hey Herm, you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine…just relieved that the year’s over.” Ron grinned at her.

“Aw, you just wanna see Harry again!” he teased.

“Well…yeah, I do. He is my boyfriend,” she retorted. ‘And so much more,’ she added silently.

The main gates of Hogwarts castle opened to welcome their guests for the day. Various reporters
were there from several wizard papers, and Minister Fudge entered with two of his aids at his
side.

“Cornelius,” Dumbledore greeted and shook his friend’s hand. The minister had a fake smile on
his face.

“Normally Albus, I’d be happy to see you and to be here, but the last few days have been a
nightmare.”

“What’s the latest news?” the headmaster asked as the two headed into a side passage.

“We know that You-Know-Who is gathering his followers, but we don’t know where he is going to
strike.”

“Why not here?” Dumbledore asked making his colleague gasp. “Think about it, why wouldn’t he
attack Hogwarts today. He knows that important people show up.”

“That’s not funny, Albus. I’m here to show that the ministry is not afraid of dark magic or
threats. And personally, I still don’t believe that You-Know-Who is still alive.” Dumbledore wanted
to scream.

“Cornelius, you can be serious. Do you really think that anyone aside from Voldemort could raid
Azkaban successfully? Or are you still refusing to accept the truth?”

“Mind your words, my friend, we have no proof that he was behind this. True, the Dark Mark was
conjured, but it does not mean You-Know-Who is behind it. His followers are just trying to stir up
trouble.”

“This is going to come back to bite you,” Dumbledore muttered under his breath.

“It’s too bad that Potter couldn’t be here to finish his schooling. He would have made a fine
graduate,” Fudge stated changing the subject.

“Then that is something that we both agree on, Cornelius.”

After spending twenty annoying minutes with the Minister of Magic, Dumbledore headed back to his
office. Upon entering the walkway, he saw his fellow professors waiting for him.

“Good, I’m glad that you’re all here.”

“Professor Dumbledore, do you really believe that You-Know-Who will attack the ceremony?”
Professor Flitwick asked rubbing his long nose.

“Yes, my friend, I believe he will. I assume that each of you has done as I asked,” he said
looking at his colleagues.

“Of course, Albus, we each did our part,” Professor McGonagall answered.

“Thank you. I pray that I am wrong about this.”

“What happens if he does show up?” Snape asked, his eyes narrowing. Dumbledore looked at the
Potions teacher.

“Then God help us.”

“I see today as day when much blood shall be shed,” Professor Trelawney said softly.

“I hope you are wrong about that.”

“My visions always hold some truth, Professor Dumbledore.”

“Hagrid?”

“Yes sir?” the half giant stated.

“Prepare the grounds for the ceremony. It is time to begin.”

The student body of Hogwarts gathered outside the main gates where rows of chairs magically
appeared, and the first through sixth years were seated. The faculty took their seats in front of
the students, and Dumbledore and Minister Fudge stood up to address the crowd.

“Welcome students, faculty, and journalists. Another year has gone by, and another class has
completed Hogwarts training. Each of them has done well, and it is time for them to receive their
certification as full-fledged wizards and witches,” Dumbledore began. The old man could feel the
hairs on the back of his neck tingle. He could feel something, and his gaze glanced in the
direction of the Dark Forest. The trees were rustling, and a slight breeze was coming from its
depths.

“I congratulate each student on their fine work and look forward to each of yours success in the
future,” Fudge added. “Now, if everything is in order, we would like to call up the students to
receive their diplomas.”

A slight shadow fell over the crowd, and everyone looked up to see black clouds rolling in from
the direction of the Dark Forest.

“That was quick for rain clouds; I thought it was supposed to be sunny today,” one of the
students stated.

“Those are no rain clouds,” Dumbledore said as his tone became serious.

The clouds formed into a blanket until it looked like a sheet of tar was covering the sky. It
enveloped the sunlight and brought an eerie darkness over the castle. Lightning crackled, and
thunder rumbled from the heavens, but no rain came down. Several of the younger students began
trembling.

“What’s going on?” Ron asked as the wind picked up. “I’ve never seen a storm move in so
fast.”

“This is no ordinary storm!” Hermione shouted over the howling of the wind. That was when she
saw it. It was just for a second, but she swore that she sawing figures illuminated among the
trees.

“Ron look!” she shouted and pointed towards the Dark Forest. Her comment made several other
students follow her line of sight.

“What’s going on here?” Minister Fudge gasped. Dumbledore could only shake his head.

“It’s just as I feared.”

From the depths of the Dark Forest appeared a hoard of black-cloaked figures. Surrounding them
was a good number of werewolves and mountain trolls. They advanced on the crowd of students and
teachers almost slithering across the grass.

“Minerva, get them inside now!” Dumbledore shouted.

“All students follow me!” Professor McGonagall ordered. They readily followed her back towards
the castle.

However, just as they reached the gate, the mighty wooden doors slammed in their faces, and
three cloaked figures stood before them.

“We cannot allow to escape so easily,” one of them sneered. McGonagall held out her arms in
defense of the students behind her.

The first years were trembling and tried to stay close to upper classmen that they knew. Ron’s
head kept snapping back and forth between the closed gate and the approaching figures from the
forest.

“What the hell is going on?” he demanded.

“Dear God, it’s happening,” Hermione gasped, and her hands began to shake.

“What’s happening?” Ron inquired.

“Those are…those are Death Eaters.”

“Wait a minute, you mean those are You-Know-Who’s…”

“Exactly.” Ron gulped at her confirmation.

Meanwhile, Professor Dumbledore had moved to place himself between the students and the Death
Eaters. Minister Fudge came to his side and look on with growing apprehension.

“I don’t believe this.”

As the mob of cloaked figures approached, the minions of werewolves and trolls moved to surround
the students and teachers.

“Go back at once!” Dumbledore ordered. The werewolves and trolls merely snarled and continued
advancing.

“Professor Sprout.” At the headmaster’s direction, the Herbology teacher took out a pouch of
seeds and flung them into the mob of beasts.

Upon hitting the ground, the seeds erupted into enormous black vines and wrapped themselves
around the dark creatures. As they struggled, the vines merely tightened, choking the life out of
them.

“What is that stuff?” Ron gasped.

“Instant Devil’s Snare,” Hermione answered.

“I don’t get it. I thought trolls were too stupid to purposely attack anyone.”

“Not if they’re controlled by the Imperious Curse.”

“Well done, Professor,” Fudge praised.

But the Devil’s Snare had only taken care of part of the problem. Most of the wolves and trolls
had escaped, and they didn’t look very pleased.

“Professor Flitwick, Severus, you know what to do!” Dumbledore ordered.

“What are you doing?” Fudge demanded.

“Since you wouldn’t heed my warning, Cornelius, I decided to take special measures to protect
the students and Hogwarts.”

Professor Flitwick took out his wand and levitated several of trolls into the air. He then
slammed them into one another or used them like as flying projectiles and threw down on other
trolls.

Snape, meanwhile, called up several sixth and seven year Slytherins who timidly came
forward.

“Listen to me, all of you…” He hand them each three vials filled with a blood-red liquid, “…when
I tell you, throw this at those wolves. And you better not miss.”

“Yes sir!” they all said at the same time. Severus turned towards the oncoming werewolves and
waited until they were within about fifty feet.

“NOW!” At his command, they flung the vials at the wolves like baseballs. When the glass
shattered, the potion created a bright red mist.

Howls of pain roared from the suffering werewolves. It had been a blinding potion and packed a
punch a hundred times more powerful than mace. The whining animals clawed helplessly at anything
near them and ended up killing one another.

Back at the gate, Professor McGonagall continued to stare down the three Death Eaters blocking
her path. Suddenly, seemingly out of nowhere, a giant three-headed dog burst from the trees, and
each of its heads latched onto one of the cloaked men. They wailed helplessly as the dog’s mighty
jaws shredded them in a matter of seconds. The students gagged at the sight until Hagrid appeared
behind the beast.

“All right, Fluffy, that’s enough!” The dog complied and threw the three bodies out of its mouth
and into the foliage.

“Hagrid?” McGonagall gasped in astonishment. “Thank goodness.”

“No time to talk, professor, it’d be best if we get them kids inside.” Minerva immediately
complied.

“Students, follow me!” Hagrid pushed open the wooden doors, and the student body hurried into
the courtyard.

Ron and Hermione stayed behind to help everyone through the doors, but they did not follow the
others.

“What are you two doing?” Hagrid demanded.

“We want to help,” Ron shouted. The giant man shook his head.

“Not this time, laddies, you’re in way over your head.”

“Hagrid, we need all the good wizards we can get,” Hermione challenged.

“I said no!” But before he could force them inside, the two teenagers ducked under his arms and
ran outside.

Dumbledore watched the scene, and a small smile came across his face. Good, that part was done.
The trolls had stopped advancing and what was left of the werewolves were snarling at the defiant
humans.

“Well Dumbledore, I see you’ve been expecting me,” a voice sneered. The sound of that voice made
everyone within earshot freeze.

The Death Eaters parted like the Red Sea, and one of them stepped forward. He had a twenty-foot
long snake following him. He lifted his hood slightly, and Dumbledore saw his eyes – crimson
red.

“No, it can’t be!” Minister Fudge cringed. The cloaked figure laughed sadistically.

“You always were a pathetic wheezing coward, Cornelius.” The man pushed his hood off to reveal a
bald head and skin as white as chalk.

“He can’t be alive!” Fudge said as his bottom lip trembled. Dumbledore’s eyes narrowed.

“Well, you’re looking well…Voldomort.”

The two wizards stared one another down. Neither one displayed any signs of backing down.

“I see that you still teach your students parlor tricks, Albus. A shame they never learn real
magic.”

“You mean how to use magic to kill and use people as if they were puppets.”

Ron and Hermione reached the other professors and took out their wands. They didn’t know attack
spells, but they could slow down the trolls.

“Hermione, look out!” The young woman jumped out of the way just as a large club came down on
her.

“Cyclonus!” The troll was thrown a good fifty feet into the air and slammed into a tree. Ron and
Hermione turned to see Remus Lupin behind them.

“Professor Lupin? What are you doing here?”

“The same as you two, stubborn kids.” Hermione looked up to see no other than Sirius and Mad-Eye
Moody land next to them.

“Sirius!” she said happily, and the man smiled at her.

“So Albus, I see you brought the whole gang together,” Voldomort sneered.

“You will not win here today,” Dumbledore said firmly.

“Oh really…” The dark wizard raised his wand, and a fireball lit on the end of it. It grew
bigger and bigger until it was almost thirty feet in diameter. “…Tell me old man, with all of you
out here, who is watching your bratty kids.”

“Don’t!” But it was too late. Voldomort launched the fireball over the archway, and Dumbledore
had no time to cast a barrier over the school.

As if the ball was listening to Dumbledore, it rose back out of the courtyard – held at the end
of another wand. The barer floated over the wall bringing the fireball with him – still
unexploded.

“What is this?” Voldomort hissed.

“I believe this belongs to you!” a familiar stated and raised his wand into the air. The
fireball shot straight up and exploded harmlessly in midair. “But I guess you won’t be needing it
anymore.”

“Who are you?” the dark wizard demanded. As the smoke cleared, the Dark Lord saw a pair of green
eyes gazing at him with a stare that would melt lead.

“Ah, if it isn’t the star of the show? Welcome…Harry Potter.”



13. Battle Begins
-----------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

“It’s Harry!” Hermione gasped, and her eyes lit up. She wanted to run to him and throw her arms
around his neck when Ron took her shoulder.

“Herm, hold it a second.”

“What? Let me go.”

“No…wait, don’t go to him.”

“Why not?” she asked pulling out of his grasp.

“Look at his eyes, Hermione…” She did as Ron asked and noticed the look of cold concentration
burning in his emerald depths. Never had she seen Harry so serious or so focused.

The young man walked towards the group of Death Eaters; his face as unexpressive as stone. Gone
was the carefree, young man – at least for now; he had been training for this day; and now, it was
time to get to work.

“Ron…Hermione…leave now.” His tone wasn’t angry or hateful but rather commanding and
authoritive.

“Harry, we won’t leave you out here alone,” His girlfriend said with a will of iron. For the
first time that day, Harry smiled. His eyes roamed from Lupin then to Sirius, and they both
nodded.

“We’ll take care of them,” Sirius confirmed.

Harry resumed his course to where Dumbledore and Minister Fudge were standing.

“What is he doing here,” Fudge demanded. “I could have you arrested for this, Potter.”

“Cornelius, shut-up!” Dumbledore snapped. “Harry has just as much right to be here at you.”

The young wizard walked passed the two older men and faced his mortal enemy.

“So Voldomort, I see coming back from the dead didn’t make you look any better.”

“Cute Potter, but insults are nothing but words. You’re nothing to me, boy; so don’t try to put
yourself in the same category as me. You’ll never come close to matching my power so why don’t you
leave now.”

“I never abandon my friends; you should know that by now.”

“Compassion is a merit of the weak, Harry. People are inherently greedy and shallow; they only
want to please themselves. Those who believe in friendship and love are nothing more than pathetic
fools.”

“I pity you, Voldomort, to have lost such hope in people. Is that what Tom Riddle taught you?”
That struck a nerve.

“Don’t you dare use that bastard’s name!” The Dark Lord shouted. “He deserved to die like the
dog that he was. You can save your pity for when you’re begging for mercy down on your knees.”

“Or perhaps…” An evil smile curved across his lips, “…we should make your fellow students beg
for mercy.”

Voldomort raised his wand, and another hoard of trolls emerged from the trees surrounding
Hogwarts. These were almost twice the size of the first, and their clubs were lined with spikes.
The trolls rushed the front of the school and began pounding on the walls like giant battering
rams. The ground shook with the force of their blows, and Harry stumbled to get his footing.

“Tell me, Potter, who should I ‘talk’ to first…” The wizard’s eyes fell upon Ron and Hermione.
“…Ah, those two…they are your friends are they not.”

“Ron…Hermione!” Harry shouted.

Two trolls caught Sirius and Lupin off guard and knocked them to the ground. Ron jumped out of
the way as a large hand made a grab for him, but Hermione wasn’t so lucky. Her foot tripped on a
stone, and she stumbled to the ground. One of the trolls grabbed her and squeezed until her bones
began to creak.

“Harry!” Her scream tore at the young man’s heart, and his eyes bore into Voldomort’s head.

“Let her go, you son of a bitch!”

“Or what, boy, you gonna cry!”

“Ahhhhh!!!” Hermione’s screeched was Harry’s final straw.

With a small pop, he disapparated from in front of the Death Eaters. Voldomort looked quite
surprised at this since no one was supposed to be able the apparate or disapparate around Hogwarts.
Harry apparated next to the troll that was holding Hermione captive.

“Expelliarmus!” A stinging pain shot through both its large hands, and the troll dropped the
young woman.

Harry caught her in his arms, and she clung to him desperately. By now though, the troll had
regained its lost club, and its companion turned on Harry as well. The trolls raised their clubs to
deal a fatal blow to the couple, but it never happened. The green beasts exploded in flames and
grunted in agony as they fell to the ground. A glow was emanating from the end of Dumbledore’s
wand, and Harry nodded in gratitude at the elder man.

“Hermione…come on, sweetheart, wake up,” he whispered and kissed her lips. Her brown eyes slowly
opened, and she groaned as her body ached.

“Harry?” she asked.

“Yeah Herm, it’s me, don’t worry, you’re safe now.”

“Harry!” Ron gasped, “You two okay?”

“Yeah, she’s just a little banged up. What about Sirius and Lupin?”

“Right here, Harry, sorry about that. Damn trolls got the drop on us.”

“It’s okay, just take cover,” he answered as he set Hermione back down on her feet.

“What are you going to do?” his girlfriend asked. Harry didn’t answer – just gave her over to
Ron and Sirius.

Harry glared daggers across the field at a grinning Voldomort. That evil smirk was making him
mad.

“Well done, Potter, so you’ve managed to learn a few things.”

“That’s enough!” Harry growled and put his wand back into his robes.

“Ah, giving up so early, I had expected more of the ‘great Harry Potter’,” Voldomort mocked. A
smirk only crossed the young wizard’s lips.

Kneeling down on one knee, Harry put his right hand to the ground.

“Earth below me, submit to my will!”

All around Hogwarts, the ground rumbled as if an earthquake was taking place. The trolls stopped
their pounding on the walls of the castle, and their bodies began trembling under the force of the
vibrations.

“What’s going on here?” Fudge gasped as he tried to stay on his feet. A small smile was on
Dumbledore’s face as his eyes watched Harry. He knew what the young man was doing.

“So, he has learned.”

“Learned what?”

“Just watch, Cornelius, and see.”

Harry closed his eyes to concentrate his spell and what he wanted it to do.

“Terranus Spiconus!”

At his command, stone spikes erupted out of the ground. They impaled each of the trolls
surrounding Hogwarts, and the creatures wailed in horror as they found ten-foot slabs of rock
speared through them. They disappeared in a blast of smoke never to return. Stone spikes also
impaled the trolls surrounding the professors as well as Dumbledore and Fudge. Harry’s next targets
were the werewolves.

“Pyros!”

Underneath each of the mutant wolves, a pillar of fire exploded out of the ground. It melted
through their flesh like a hot knife through butter, and a howl was all that was that heard before
they were roasted within the fire.

Several of the Death Eaters became quite apprehensive after they saw such incredible magic
performed. Voldomort glared at the wizards in front of them. Who could have done such powerful
spells – Dumbledore…yes, Fudge…maybe, Sirius and Lupin… probably not, Moody…yes, Potter…not by a
long shot…or could he? What made the spell so difficult was controlling it enough to take out your
opponents while not harming your friends or comrades. Not one of them had been hurt the spikes or
blasts.

“My lord, what was that?” A frightened voice said softly as it cringed in the background.

“It’s seems, Wormtail, that this day will be much more entertaining than I had hoped.”

“Lord Voldomort, who cast that powerful spell?” The dark wizard turned to see a familiar face
behind him.

“Ah Lucius, glad you could make it. I believe that Dumbledore could have cast that spell, but
I’m not so sure about the others. I hardly think that Potter could have pulled off such a feet,
but…”

“…tell me, Lucius, where has that boy been since he was expelled?”

“I…I…I don’t really know; no one does. He didn’t return home; he merely disappeared.”

“Interesting…perhaps Harry Potter has learned new magic while he was away? Hmm, that’s just
makes this all the more fulfilling.”

“My lord, what about the trolls and werewolves? That was the last of them?” one of the Death
Eaters stated.

“No matter, we didn’t need them anyway, or have my followers become scared of a few opponents to
battle?” Voldomort hissed, glaring at the cloaked figures.

“No master, not at all!” They all said at once.

Harry stood back up off his knees and brushed himself off. Ron and Hermione’s jaws were on the
ground, and Sirius and Lupin were looking at him quite astonished. Even Moody had a problem keeping
a straight face.

“Well done, Harry, well done,” Moody said with a toothy grin.

“Harry did that!” Ron gasped.

“Incredible!” Hermione added.

“All of you, get inside the main gates, now.”

“But Harry?” Hermione protested.

“I said now!” he snapped. His eyes left no room for argument.

“C’mon, you two, do as he says,” Sirius prodded. “There is nothing you can do to help out here.”
The three men led Harry’s friends away, and the young wizard headed back towards where Dumbledore
and Fudge stood.

“Quite a display, Harry, I see the training paid off,” Dumbledore smiled.

“You mean he did that!” Fudge said in astonishment. “What has he been doing?”

“He’s been preparing, Cornelius, preparing for Voldomort to return, and now, it’s time to finish
this battle.” Harry drew out his wand again.

“Potter!” It was Snape’s voice this time, “Well done, boy, but don’t let it go to your head.”
His voice was still cold, but Harry could sense an underlying praise in it.

“Flitwick, Sprout, it is time for you to leave my friends. Help Minerva with the students. I’m
sure they’re all very nervous on what’s going on out here.”

“Of course, good luck, Albus,” Professor Sprout stated, and the two men quickly headed for the
gate.

“Now…there’s only four of us, but numbers aren’t everything. Think before you act and watch each
other’s backs,” Dumbledore ordered.

Harry stepped ahead of the three men, and his eyes once again locked on Voldomort.

“Voldomort, this will be the last time that we meet,” his green eyes flaring up.

“For once, Harry Potter, we agree on something, but be warned, you will not leave here
alive.”

“We’ll see about that. Shall we begin?” The evil wizard merely laughed.

“Boy, do you think that I will just fight you because you ask me to? I’m not going to soil my
hands with fighting you. I could kill you if I wanted, but I want to see you suffer first. So, I’ll
let my followers play with you first…before you die.”

“My lord, allow me that pleasure…” Lucius Malfoy pulled off his hood, “…I have a score to settle
with that brat.”

“Lucius, you two-timing son of a…” Fudge hissed, “…I trusted you!”

“Shut-up, you stupid fool, when will you learn that I can do whatever I want? Not even you or
the Ministry of Magic can do anything to me; I own half of them anyway.”

“Well Lucius, since you gave me the pleasure of seeing Harry Potter thrown out of Hogwarts, I
will bestow the honor on you, but do not kill him. I want to be the last thing he sees before he
dies.”

“Of course.”

The other twelve Death Eaters look anxiously at Dumbledore, Fudge, and Snape.

“The rest of you…do as you like with the others but kill Dumbledore last. I want him to watch
his precious Harry be taken apart.”

“Yes master…yes, my lord…as you wish…” Came the answers.

The four wizards readied themselves as the swarm of Death Eaters began to surround them, and
they readied themselves for the final battle to begin.



14. Spikes and Pillars
----------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Harry Potter stood firm as the group of Death Eaters surrounded himself, Dumbledore, Fudge, and
Snape. Lucius Malfoy stepped forward pointing his wand at Harry.

“All right, boy, it’s time for you to learn your lesson. Now, you will learn why no one
challenges me.”

“Save the insults, or are you planning to talk all day?” Harry snapped at him.

“So, you have some backbone do you, Potter? Well then, let’s see what happens when I have you
begging for mercy.”

Lucius raised his wand, and shards of fire shot out towards Harry. He rolled out of the way, but
his loose robes were nicked slightly, and the cloth ignited. Quickly dowsing the flames, Harry
looked around for his opponent.

“Looking for me…” a voice came from behind. Harry suddenly found himself pinned to the ground by
a powerful spell. It was like lying in the middle of wind tunnel as blast after blast of wind beat
his body into the ground.

“…I told you, boy; you should not have underestimated me.”

“Who said I was underestimating you?” Harry rolled over and glared up at his attacker.

Lucius Malfoy was stunned to see the young wizard rise to his feet without much difficulty even
though he was still being hit by the wind spell. Malfoy wasn’t afraid and increased the power of
the wind currents. It looked like Harry was standing in the middle of a tornado. His robes were
flapping widely, and his hair was flaring out every which way, yet he remained in place. Harry
raised his wand and pointed it towards Malfoy.

“Disperse!” At his command, the winds stopped, and the tornado immediately disappeared.

“Well, you do have a few tricks up your sleeve,” Lucius sneered. “So tell me, Potter, just what
can you do? What did old Dumbledore teach you anyway? I know, why not give us all a demonstration;
I’m sure we’d all love to see it.”

“You never learn do you?” Harry growled. “Why do you persist in thinking that your family is so
great?”

“Enough, you whining child, just show me what you can really do!”

Harry’s eyes narrowed, and he lowered his wand. Very well, if Lucius Malfoy wanted to see his
power, then so be it. Snapping his head around, Harry looked at the Death Eaters surrounding
Dumbledore, Fudge, and Snape. All he did was twitch his eyebrows, and the cloaked figures were
hurled into the air.

Harry twirled them around like tops, and they screeched trying to stop him. He then slammed six
of them against one another – knocking them out cold. Using his wand to materialize a rope, he
quickly tied them up, and then did the same with the other six Death Eaters. Harry dropped the
unconscious figures onto the ground in a heap.

“How was that?” he asked and glared at Lucius Malfoy. The older man’s eyes were wide with
astonishment, but a smirk still crossed his face.

“Very cute, but that is nothing. I will show you real magic!” Malfoy raised his wand and
directed it towards the dark clouds overhead.

“Ramus Striconus!”

All around Hogwarts, lightning crackled across the sky. The bolts of energy came together
directly over where Harry was standing. More and more lightning was gathered, and it formed in a
massive electric ball.

“Take this!” Lucius aimed his wand at Harry, and a beam of electricity shot out from the ball.
It had to hold at least 100,000 volts of power.

“No, you don’t!” Harry raised his hand and faced his palm up towards the approaching attack,
“Barrias Erecte!”

The lightning blast slammed into Harry, and it enveloped him a bright, white light.

“Harry!” Fudge gasped, and Dumbledore looked on worriedly. Snape just stood by with a dark glare
in his eyes.

“I warned you, Potter, you’re no challenge for you,” Malfoy laughed.

“Are you so sure?” a voice said from within the light.

“It can’t be!”

The light died down, and Harry was still there. His hand was raised, and the electrical energy
was dispersing around him.

“You forgot one key part, Lucius. The Earth is a natural lightning rod, and the ground naturally
absorbs electrical energy. That attack can be defended easily if you know what you’re doing!” Harry
explained.

“Why you little…”

“However, I couldn’t waste this gift from mother nature…” Another ball of electricity formed in
front of Harry, “…so I felt that you should have it back.”

A surge of lightning lurched towards Lucius Malfoy, and the wizard screamed as it caught him off
guard. More and more electrical power poured into his body, and his own robes became charred and
sizzled. He’d created his own personal electric chair.

“All right, Harry, that’s enough,” Dumbledore stated.

Nodding his head, the young man lowered his wand, and the last of the lightning fizzled out in
the air. Lucius Malfoy collapsed to his knees. His skin was a charred brown, and his hair had been
sizzled. The pompous wizard fell flat onto his face.

“Why is it that some people never understand?” Harry sighed.

“My…my…my…you’ve improved, Harry Potter. You’ve improved tremendously – well done. I didn’t
think you could stand a chance against Lucius,” Voldomort said with an evil smile.

“It’s your turn!” Harry stated and turned towards the Dark Lord.

“So it’s a fight you want; well then, I shall oblige you. Be warned, it will be your last. I
would have thought Dumbledore would be the one to fight me, but I guess I can take care of him
next.”

“Wrong Voldomort, there won’t be anyone else. This is between you and me.”

“Very true, my boy. So be it, you shall be my next victim, Harry Potter.”

“This is the last time that you will hurt anyone ever again!” Harry raised his wand, and his
eyes narrowed.

“It’s best if we leave…now!” Dumbledore stated, looking at the two wizards facing off.

“Are you nuts? Potter can’t beat him!” Snape hissed.

“Severus, I don’t have time to argue. If you don’t want to get caught in the crossfire, I
suggest we all return inside the main gates.”

“Albus, you can’t be serious about leaving that boy out here all alone,” Fudge gasped.

“This is his destiny, Cornelius. Now, he must fulfill it. Both of you…come!”

“Fine, but if he dies, it’s his own fault,” Snape growled.

Back inside the main archway, Ron and Hermione were watching the battle progress. Hagrid and
Professor McGonagall were next to them to prevent any Death Eaters from entering the school.

Hermione watched in awe as Harry killed the trolls and werewolves without a hitch then defeated
twelve Death Eaters in a matter of seconds. Then, he’d matched wands with Lucius Malfoy and
won!

‘My gosh Harry, what’s happening to you? Are you really the same person?’

She remembered the way he’d held her in his arms, and the soft kiss that he’d given her. Yes, it
was him; he was still her Harry. But now, he was just focused on his goal and ending the pain that
Voldomort had caused.

“Man, Harry’s kicking some serious butt out there,” Ron gasped and shook his head. “I can’t
believe he actually beat Lucius Malfoy.”

“You’re lying, Weasley.” Ron and Hermione turned to see Draco Malfoy behind them. “No one can
beat my father – least of all Potter!”

“Oh really, why don’t you see for yourself?” Ron pointed to the charred figure lying face down
on the ground a few feet from where Harry was standing.

Draco’s mouth dropped open. He couldn’t believe it! Just couldn’t believe it! How could Harry
Potter beat his father? It wasn’t conceivable; no one had ever beating Lucius Malfoy at anything.
And from the looks of things, Potter didn’t have a scratch on him. What the hell had happened out
there?

“Look…Professor Dumbledore, Professor Snape, and Minister Fudge are heading this way,” Hermione
stated. The three men arrived about ten seconds later.

“Professor McGonagall, are the students all right?”

“Yes Albus, no one was hurt. Harry prevented that fireball from doing major damage. But how is
he doing this?”

“It’s just as thought; his power is approaching its true potential,” Dumbledore stated.

“What do you mean true potential?” Snape asked with a hint of wonder.

“What I mean, Severus, is that Harry is just warming up. His true test will come against
Voldomort. He’s far more powerful than Lucius Malfoy, but it will be a difficult fight for him to
win.”

“Wait a minute, professor, aren’t you going to help him?” Ron gasped.

“There is nothing that I can do for him, Ron. Harry must do this on his own. He has the strength
to do it. The only question now is…can he realize that.”

“But you can’t leave out there alone,” Hermione said with tears in her eyes.

“Do not worry, Miss Granger, Harry knows what he’s doing. He knows what’s at stake, and I
believe that he will win this battle. If we believe in him, that is all the help he will need,”
Dumbledore answered with a warm smile. The young woman looked out at the blackened grass field to
where her lover was facing off with the darkest wizard of all time.

‘I do believe in you, Harry. I love you, now and always. So be that jerk once and for all and
come to me in one piece.’

As if reading her thoughts, Harry heard Hermione’s words inside his head, and his heart began to
burn brightly.

‘I’m coming back to you, Herm, I swear it!’

“Voldomort!” Harry roared. “Our time has come. This ends now.” The Dark Lord snickered and drew
his wand out of his black robes.

“Well then…let’s begin.”



15. Harry vs. Voldemort
-----------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Harry and Voldemort stared one another down, each trying to look for hesitation in their
opponent’s eyes. A cruel smile crossed the dark wizard’s lips, and he laughed sadistically.

“I’ve got to hand it to you, Harry Potter, you have exceeded my expectations. I was just
planning to kill you and be done with it, but now…now, I’ll be able to enjoy it.”

“I’m at your service, Tom.” Voldemort’s eyes turned bloody red.

“Don’t you dare call me that name!”

“Why not? It’s your true name. If you’re ashamed of it, that’s your problem!”

“You’re too cocky, my boy, it will be your undoing.” Harry shook his head, and his eyes took on
a hint of sadness.

“Know something, in a way, I pity you, Voldemort.” That got a rise out of the Dark Lord.

“You what? Pity me? What kind of nonsense are you speaking?”

“I feel sorry that your father abandoned you; I feel sorry that he treated you so badly; and I
feel sorry that he rejected you as his son. No child should be subjected to that,” Harry
answered.

“Well aren’t you the amateur psychiatrist? Is that supposed to make me feel all warm
inside?”

“No, I’m just saying that I sympathize with what happened you. That’s why I don’t hate you –
even though you killed my parents.”

“What the hell are you doing?” Voldemort growled, sounding quite flustered.

“I’m trying to tell you that even if I have to kill you, I won’t hate you.”

“You’re pathetic, Potter, I’d expected more from you. Yet here you are with your words of
sympathy. Give me a break. You’re kindness is what makes you weak. Your parents were weak, and they
paid the price for it. I especially liked how loud your mother screamed; it was a rarity
indeed.”

“Don’t you dare talk about her!” Harry said angrily.

“Temper…temper…what happened to not hating me? You’re a hypocrite, Potter, all humans are. They
act kind and compassionate to one another, but what they really care about is themselves? All
humankind is greedy and selfish; it’s in our nature to be that way.”

“It’s sad that you believe that, Voldemort, but I guess that’s all you know. I, on the other
hand, believe that humanity is generous and kind. Only when we let ourselves be influenced by evil,
do we become evil.”

“Ah, and where does evil come from, Harry Potter?”

“All of us have negative feelings or emotions, but that’s why we have friends and loved ones to
help us through the dark times. You, however, have pushed everyone away and made them believe that
you are all-powerful and cannot be stopped.”

“How true, boy, I am untouchable. You should know that by now.”

“We shall see about that. I see now that Tom Riddle is dead, and all that remains is Lord
Voldemort.”

“For once, Harry, we agree on something.”

“Perhaps, but it just reminds me that I’m not killing a human being; I’m killing a monster.”

“Not if I kill you first!”

“Take your best shot, but remember what happened last time we fought. Our wands won’t work on
one another.”

“True, but I don’t need a wand to kill you.” Voldemort raised his hand and directed it at the
ground.

“Terranes Exploda!”

Harry just barely rolled out of the way before the ground beneath him exploded upwards.
Voldemort recast the spell, and Harry jumped back and forth dodging the attacks as they came.

“You’re quite agile, Harry Potter, but you can’t runaway forever.”

A smile came across the dark wizard’s face. The boy was playing right into his hands. He
continued pelting Harry with the exploding spells and waited for the young man to come back towards
him.

“My turn, Voldemort…Wingardium Leviosa!”

“Oh, how threatening,” he laughed as Harry levitated him off the ground.

“Cyclonus!”

Voldemort suddenly understood, but it was too late. The tornado hit him full on, and he was
thrown onto his back. By lifting him off the ground, Harry had achieved maximum contact with his
spell. But that was not the end of the fight by a long shot.

“Clever, Harry Potter, very clever,” Voldemort laughed as he picked himself up, “but now this
fight is mine.”

“Hey!” Before Harry could move, a giant snake wrapped around him. He tried to break free, but
the snake only tightened its grip on him.

“Ha…ha…ha…well done, Nagini, he looks tasty doesn’t he.” The giant snake thrust out its tongue
and hissed at its victim.

“You may be clever, Harry, but you’re also ignorant. My attacks were merely a distraction so
that Nagini could capture you, and it worked to perfection.”

Harry suddenly felt very cold, and he felt like his blood was turning to ice.

“Ah, are you cold? Nagini’s skin is quite special. She can freeze any object in a shell of ice.
That way, if she only eats half of her catch, it won’t spoil before she can finish it,” Voldemort
laughed.

“Professor Dumbledore, we have to help him!” Hermione nearly shouted. When she saw that massive
snake wrap around Harry, her heart had nearly stopped.

“She’s right, we can’t leave Harry out there helpless like that!” Ron said angrily.

“They may be right, Albus, the boy cannot fight alone,” Professor Lupin stated.

“Damn Voldemort, he just had to bring his pet snake!” Moody growled, and his magical eye
twitched.

“Snake…snake…that’s it!” Hermione gasped.

“What’s it?” Ron asked confused.

“Harry can talk to snakes. Remember back in second year, he talked to the big snake that was
going to eat Seamus and Neville. Why can’t he talk to this one and tell it to let him go?”

“That’s quite an idea, Hermione,” Sirius stated, “and it just might work.”

“We need to tell him!”

“Hold it, young lady!” McGonagall grabbed her arm, “You’re not going anywhere.”

“Let go of me, Harry needs me!” Hermione ripped her arm out of her teacher’s grasp and ran
towards her lover.

“Come back Hermione!” Ron shouted.

“Damn that girl!” Dumbledore followed after her with Lupin and Sirius hot on his heels.

Meanwhile, Harry felt like he’d been sitting in a freezer for the last ten hours. His robes had
icicles hanging off them, and his sweat had caused frost to form on his skin.

“Soon, Harry Potter, you’ll be nothing but a big icecube,” Voldemort laughed.

“Errrrr…I won’t be beaten by a cheater like you,” Harry spat at him, and his breath came out as
a puff of smoke.

“Harry!” a familiar voice called as she ran up. The young man forced his neck to turn and saw
Hermione running towards him with Dumbledore, Sirius, and Lupin just behind her.

“Hermione…no…stay back!” But she didn’t listen to him.

“Harry, talk to it…tell it to let you go. You can talk to snakes…remember?” Hermione screamed
out of breath.

‘Of course, I forgot! I can speak Parseltongue!’ Harry said to himself. Gazing down at the big
snake, he looked it right in the eyes.

“Release me at once.” His voice came out as a series of hisses, and the snake seemed rather
confused. It loosened its grip and stopped freezing him.

“No Nagini!” Voldemort shouted, “Do not listen to him, he is trying to trick you. Kill him now!”
The snake quickly followed his orders.

“Ahhhhh!!!” Harry shouted as the coils tightened around him again.

“Harry!” Hermione cried and ran to him. “Let him go!” she shouted at the snake.

The serpent turned its head towards her and lashed out. Hermione was just saved from being
bitten by Sirius who pulled her back.

“Away with you all!” Voldemort shouted and blasted them a good twenty feet away.

“Hermione!” Harry shouted as he saw her fly through the air and land hard on the unforgiving
ground. He felt a fiery rage beginning to burn inside his heart, and his eyes fixed on
Voldemort.

“You bastard!” he growled. The dark wizard merely sneered happily.

“Ah, she’s special to you…is she? Well too bad that you won’t be around to see her much longer.
Nagini, finish him now!”

The snake crushed Harry in its coils, and he cried out in pain. He could feel his bones creaking
from the tremendous pressure, and his skin was ice-cold from the freezing effect of her scales.

Hermione and the others had managed to get back up, and they saw Harry writhing in pain under
the snake’s torture.

“Harry, no! Fight it!” Hermione shouted, and tears came to her eyes.

“Ah, so you care for him do you?” Hermione could feel a pair of crimson eyes upon her, and she
turned to see Voldemort gazing at her intently.

“Tell me, my dear, does it hurt you to watch him die? Well don’t worry, you’ll be next!” he
laughed. Sirius quickly stepped in front of Hermione to act as a shield.

Harry had heard every word, and it had pushed his fury to the breaking point. There was no way
in hell that Voldemort was going to lay a finger on Hermione. The ground began to shake beneath
him, drawing everyone’s attention back to him.

“INNNNNN…FERRRRRR…NASSSSSS!!!”

A giant fireball erupted around Harry’s body, and the snake wailed in agony as the fire tore
through its skin. It recoiled from around his body and was thrown in Voldemort’s direction as the
spell exploded around Harry.

Hermione screamed in horror when she saw his body engulfed in flames, and the tears poured down
her cheeks.

“I’m not done yet, Voldemort.”

From within the fireball, they could all see a familiar shape; it was Harry. The young man
lowered his wand, and the fire went out. The charred remains of the massive snake lay scorched at
the feet of his enemy, and the Dark Lord looked quite amazed at what he had just seen. Harry’s eyes
never left him, and they continued to burn with raw fury.

“You’re not touching, my girl, you bastard.”

“Well…well…well, you’re just full of surprises aren’t you, Potter.” The wizard’s eyes darted
between Harry and Hermione, and an evil plan formulated in his mind.

“So, Harry Potter, she’s yours is she? Why didn’t you tell me?”

Voldemort laughed sadistically and raised his wand. Harry quickly raised his and readied himself
for an attack.

“As much as I would love to just kill you right now, I’d prefer to see you suffer first…”

“Blackest of all magic…darkest of all night…consume that which is his…and destroy all that is
bright…SOUL EATER!!!”

A black mist formed at the end of Voldemort’s wand, and a stream of black energy surged towards
Hermione.

“Look out!”

Hermione watched in horror as the attack came at her. At the last instant however, Sirius pushed
her out of the way. He screamed as the spell hit his chest, and he wailed in agony as he felt like
he was being ripped apart from the inside out.

“Sirius!” Harry shouted and ran for him.

His godfather dropped to his knees, and his body was contorting in pain as the spell continued
to torture him.

“What have you done?” Harry growled, glaring at Voldemort.

“Ah, have you never seen a Soul Eater performed before? As it’s name says, the spell literally
drains the life energy out of a person – slowly and painfully. Too bad, it was intended for that
stupid girl, but I guess Black will have to do.”

“You son of a…” Remus said angrily. Dumbledore quickly approached Sirius’ squirming body and
knelt down next to him. There was a large black spot on his chest, and it was getting larger at it
drained his life away.

“Don’t even think about it, Albus, there’s no counterspell to save him. You’ll just have to sit
there and watch him die.”

“Voldemort, this is beneath even you,” the headmaster of Hogwarts snapped and placed his hands
on Sirius’ head.

Closing his eyes, Dumbledore concentrated all of his power and knowledge. His hands glowed
slightly, and before long, sweat was appearing on his brow.

“Professor?” Harry gasped as he saw the strain that the old man was putting on himself.

“Do not touch him!” Remus ordered. “You’ll only break his concentration.”

The tar-like burn on Sirius’ chest began to get smaller and smaller, and it soon disappeared all
together. Dumbledore collapsed face first on to the ground.

“What happened to him?” Hermione asked in horror.

“I…I’m not quite sure…” Remus stated, “…but I think that Professor Dumbledore cancelled out the
spell. The Soul Eater sucks up a person’s entire life force, but I believe that Albus gave it some
of his own to stop it from draining Sirius. However, it may very well have killed him in the
process.”

“No, it can’t be!” Harry cried.

“The stubborn, old fool, he never knew when to leave well enough alone, but oh well, that’s just
one more thorn out of my side,” Voldemort laughed.

Harry turned towards him with hate burning in his eyes.

“You just made me mad!”

“I’m so scared of you, boy.”

“Harry…” a choppy voice stuttered. It was Dumbledore’s voice, and the young man quickly went to
his mentor’s side.

“Professor, stay still.” The old man’s eyes opened slightly, and he cracked a small smile.

“Harry…listen to me, you must unleash your true power. Only then, will you be able to defeat
Voldemort.”

“But sir, I don’t know how. What am I supposed to do?”

“Look within yourself, my boy, the knowledge is there. Now trust yourself.” Those were
Dumbledore’s final words before he lapsed into unconsciousness.

Harry closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Rising to his feet, the young man raised his head,
and his green eyes fixed on his mortal enemy. Pulling off his shredded robe, Harry tossed it to the
ground and walked over to Hermione.

“Hermione, take this,” he stated and handed her his wand.

“Harry, what are you doing?”

“Listen carefully, if Voldemort’s attacks you, cast a spell on him – any spell. My wand and his
came from the same phoenix; they cannot affect one another. That will give you a defense
mechanism.”

“But what about you?” Harry’s eyes narrowed, and his head turned to face the dark wizard.

“I’ll be just fine. Professor Lupin, take Hermione, Sirius, and Professor Dumbledore back inside
Hogwarts,” he stated.

“We won’t leave you out here alone,” his girlfriend said defiantly.

“Hermione!” Harry shouted at her. His tone was commanding, but it wasn’t cruel. “Do as I say and
leave!”

“Listen to him, Hermione, he knows what he’s doing,” Remus stated.

“Don’t you dare get killed on me, Potter!” she said with a smile.

“Not a chance, now go!”

With some help from Hermione, Remus levitated Sirius and Dumbledore’s bodies into the air and
guided them back towards the main gate.

“Did I say anyone could leave?” a voice interjected.

Hermione suddenly lifted off the ground, and her arms and legs flailed about as she tried to get
her bearings back. Harry’s head snapped around to see Voldemort smiling cruelly.

“Release her now!”

“Now, why would I do that? It was a big mistake to show me your weakness, Harry Potter. You will
watch her die right now!”

Voldemort spun Hermione around in the air twisting and spinning her around until she was almost
green. Lowering his wand, he slammed the young woman into the ground, and she cried out as several
of her ribs broke from the impact.

Harry was at her side in an instant, and he rolled her over. Blood was trailing out of her
mouth, and he knew that she had to have severe internal injuries.

“Not bad, but she didn’t bounce very well did she?” Voldemort’s sadistic laughter permeated the
air, and it made Harry’s skin crawl.

“I guess I’ll just have to keep trying then,” the dark wizard raised his wand and pointed it at
Hermione. Harry made a dash for his wand, but it was too late.

“Crucio!”

“Ahhhhhh!!!” Hermione wailed in pure agony.

It felt like her skin was on fire, and her bones were cracking into small pieces. Every muscle
in her body convulsed with pain, and she screamed to high heaven. Her cries echoed in Harry’s ears,
and he clenched his fists in frustration and anger.

‘Dammit, what do I do?’ he shouted at himself.

‘Call upon your power,’ a silent voice answered him.

“What was that?” Harry said out loud.

‘Listen son, you have the strength to beat Voldemort; all you must do is ask for it,’ the voice
answered.

Harry swore that he recognized the voice, but from where…

‘Your father is right, Harry, now is the time to unleash your true magic,’ another voice stated
– this one female. Suddenly, the young wizard understood.

‘Mother…father…is that you?’

‘Yes son, it is us. We knew what Gemstar did to you that day when you were a child, and what it
meant for you. You carry a sleeping power within you; now just bring it out.’

“But I don’t know how?”

“What are you babbling about, boy?” Voldemort hissed.

‘Listen to your heart, Harry, and trust it to give you the words,’ his parents said in
unison.

Hermione’s cries continued to ring in Harry’s ears, and the young man rose to his feet once
again - his eyes burning with rage and righteous anger.

“Let her go, Voldemort, or die where you stand!” Harry roared.

“You never learn, Potter, there is nothing that you can do to stop me!”

The dark lord recast his spell on Hermione, and she cried out as her pain intensified. That was
the last straw. Harry would take no more! Quieting his fury, he could hear soft words being
whispered in the back of his mind. It was like something was writing a spell directly into his
memory. Then Harry realized, it was Gemstar; she was giving him the spell. Her spirit was giving
him the spell to unlock his power.

“Voldemort, I have only one thing to say to you.”

“And what is that, Harry Potter?” The young man’s eyes looked directly at the dark wizard, and a
smirk crossed his lips.

“Bird of fire…hear my plight…come to me upon this night…draw your power from light…” Harry
extended his hands skyward.

“…and within my hands…your power ignite…PHOENIX!!!”

What happened next would be remembered at Hogwarts for ages to come. Fire blazed in Harry
Potter’s eyes, and you could hear a roar like a tiger’s as his power erupted. For the first time, a
look of fear crossed the face of Lord Voldemort.

“No…it…it can’t be!”



16. Phoenix Rising
------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

From inside their dormitories, the students of Hogwarts watched in astonishment as pillars of
fire exploded out of Harry Potter’s hands. The flames surrounded the young wizard, and he folded
his arms across his chest.

“Ron, what’s going on out there? What is Harry doing?” Lavender gasped trying not to gawk.

“I…I don’t know…I’ve never seen anything like this!” the red-haired young man answered. He
watched his best friend in awe wondering how he could be doing this.

“What in blazes is Harry trying to do?” Hagrid shouted as he saw the fireball engulf his
long-time friend.

“Hagrid!” Remus called to him, “Give me a hand!” The half-giant looked at the elder man carrying
a limp Professor Dumbledore and Sirius over his shoulder.

“Is he all right?” Professor McGonagall asked as she knelt down to check on the headmaster.

“I think so, but it’s gonna take a long time before his strength comes back.”

Dumbledore’s eyes opened slightly, and McGonagall gazed down at him.

“Albus, stay still, you need to rest.” The elder man turned his head, and he smiled when he saw
the fire surrounding Harry.

“At last, he’s found it!”

“Found what, Professor?” five different people asked at once – Professor McGonagall, Snape,
Fudge, Hagrid, and Remus.

“Harry’s power is awakening. Now, it is time to see what he can really do.”

Back outside, Harry opened his eyes and looked directly at Voldemort. He could feel his power
inside him; it was his for the taking.

A loud screech could be heard all around Hogwarts; it sounded like a large bird. Harry stretched
out his arms, and the fire surrounding him exploded outwards. The pillars from each of his arms
formed into wings, and the fire above him formed into a head with a long tuft at one end and a long
beak at the other.

“AWWWWWKKKKKK!!!” the mighty bird called as its mouth opened in a loud cry.

Voldemort could only stand and stare as he watched a phoenix take shape around Harry Potter’s
body.

“What is this?” he demanded.

“Now Voldemort, we end this once and for all,” Harry nearly growled. The phoenix screeched, and
its flaming eyes bore into the Dark Lord’s face.

“You will not defeat me, boy. I enjoyed the fireworks show, but it can easily be
extinguished.”

Voldemort raised his wand and directed it towards the lake near Hagrid’s shack.

“Aquas Tidales!”

The water in the lake exploded upwards and surged towards Harry like a giant tidal wave. He
showed no signs of backing down, and Voldemort directed the wall of water directly onto him.

Harry crossed his arms in front of him, and the phoenix closed its wings around he and
Hermione.

“That won’t help you, Harry Potter!” Voldemort laughed as the tidal wave slammed into the
firebird.

Water sprayed everywhere upon impact, but it merely evaporated into the air. The phoenix
reopened its wings, and Harry shook his head.

“You’re finished, Voldemort!”

The Dark Lord’s eyes burned with hatred, but they fell upon the limp figure lying next to Harry
on the ground. Aiming his wand directly at Hermione, he snarled evilly.

“No more games, Potter, you will now watch your ‘girlfriend’ die in your arms!”

“Avada Kedavra!”

Harry grabbed Hermione just in time as the puff of green smoke appeared. She coughed raggedly as
he held her in his arms, and blood splattered on his sweater. He knew that she was in bad
shape.

He put her back down on the ground and picked up her left hand. The ring that he had given her
was still on her finger, and it glistened slightly from the flames around them.

“Hogwarts Main Gate,” Harry stated and cast a spell on the ring.

Hermione disappeared in a flash. He’d made her ring into a portkey, and Remus could remove the
spell once she was back inside.

Hermione emerged in the middle of a very surprised crowd of people. Ron and Lavender immediately
went to her side, and Professor McGonagall checked her injuries. The older woman’s face turned
grim.

“Is she gonna be all right?” Ron asked worriedly.

“We need to get her to the hospital wing. Hagrid?” The half-giant nodded and picked up the young
woman easily. With Ron and Lavender in tow, he headed for Madam Pomfrey’s ward.

Harry Potter could not remember ever being angry with too many people – the Dursleys…yes, Draco
Malfoy…on occasion. But he had never felt such a surge of raw fury as he did at that moment.

“Voldemort!” he roared so loud the earth almost shook. The dark wizard almost gulped.

“Many people have tried to kill me, Harry Potter, and they have all failed – so will you.”

The phoenix surrounding Harry’s body diminished in size until it disappeared completely. Harry
stood back up to his feet and pulled out his wand. Pointing it at his opponent, a stream of ice
arrows shot out front his wand.

Voldemort levitated up into the air to avoid the attack, and Harry was waiting for that.

“What’s the matter, boy, your fire burn out?”

“I’m not going to waste the phoenix on you!”

“A bit overconfident aren’t we?”

“No, I just finally understand who am I.”

“And who are you, Harry Potter?” The young man’s eyes narrowed, and his expression hardened into
a look of cold determination.

“Your devise!”

Voldemort raised his wand, and a spark ignited at the end of it. The wizard launched his attack
at Harry, but it exploded several feet before it reached him. The brightest of the explosion forced
the young man to cover his eyes, and that’s what Voldemort was waiting. He disapparated from where
he was and apparated right in front of Harry.

“Uh!” He suddenly felt a cold hand wrap around his throat.

“Now Harry Potter, you will die by my own hand.” Voldemort squeezed, and Harry began to gag.

“Be a good boy and die!” The Dark Lord tightened his grip, and Harry could feel consciousness
slipping from him.

“No!” he shouted, “I won’t let this happen!”

Harry grabbed the hand around his throat. As of a sudden, Voldemort’s skin began to sizzle. He
felt a hideous burning sensation on his hand.

“What is this? I’m immune to your stupid protection!”

“Wrong, you bastard, you may have used my blood to revive yourself, but you’ll never be like
me!”

Harry felt Voldemort’s hand melting in his grasp, and the evil wizard drew back from him
sharply.

“Oh no you don’t!” Harry quickly put his hands on his face, and Voldemort howled in pain.

“This can’t be! I cannot be beaten by you!”

Harry pressed his hands harder against his face, and his skin began to disintegrate just as
Professor Quirl’s had so long ago. Voldemort’s body turned to dust, and his robe floated back down
to the ground. Harry floated back down to the ground, and a small smile appeared on his face.

“It’s over.”

Brushing the sweat from his brow, Harry turned around to hear cheering coming from every window
in Hogwarts. Blushing slightly in embarrassment, the young man headed back to the main gate.

Remus was waiting for him, and a semi-conscious Sirius was standing next to him with his arm
over his shoulder. Professor Dumbledore was back on his feet as well with a little help from
Professor McGonagall.

“Well done, Harry, well done,” Dumbledore said proudly. All of the boy’s mentors were smiling at
him, and the young man flushed slightly.

Despite his friends’ cheers, Harry felt uneasy. Something wasn’t right about this. He turned
around, and his eyes fell upon the place where Voldemort’s former body had fallen.

Back out in the field, something stirred from within Voldemort’s robes. A small dust cloud
appeared from inside and floated up outside the cloth. An angry voice growled with hatred. Harry
Potter would not beat him so easily, but he needed a body or a host in order to maintain himself.
His eyes fell upon the charred body of his pet snake Nagini.

‘No Harry Potter, it’s not over yet.’



17. End of Voldemort
--------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Harry felt the hairs of the back of his neck tingle, and his scar burned intensely. He turned
away from his friends, and his eyes gazed out towards the battlefield.

“Harry, what is it?” Sirius asked.

That was when they all saw it - the form of a huge snake rising off the ground. It had grown to
almost forty feet long, and when it opened its eyes, they were crimson red.

“Voldemort,” Harry stated, and his teeth clenched.

“But I thought he was dead,” Remus said in shock.

“It appears that his essence has possessed the body of that snake,” Dumbledore explained.

“Harry…Potter…ssss…” The snake’s eyes glowed bright red, and it hissed at the young wizard
menacingly.

“That does it!” Harry clenched his fists in anger. “This is the last time.”

“Harry, take this.” Dumbledore reached into his robes and drew out a gold-hilted broadsword. “I
thought you might need this.”

The young man took the sword from his mentor and grasped it firmly in his hand. Harry knew this
sword; it was the sword that belonged to Godric Gryffindor. He’d used this same weapon back in
second year against that horrible basilisk.

‘It doesn’t matter. The snake’s just twice as big this time,’ Harry thought to himself. The
blade glinted from the now afternoon sun, and the rubies engraved in the hilt glittered with subtle
power.

Stepping back outside the archway, Harry clasped his sword in his right hand. He extended his
left hand out towards a grove of trees.

“Accio Firebolt!”

Harry’s broomstick shot out of the trees and came to his side at his command. He took the
Firebolt in his hand and turned back to his friends and teachers.

“No one follow me.” It was not a suggestion but an order.

Mounting his broom, he gripped the handle with his left hand and the sword in his right. Harry
kicked off the ground and flew off the face his enemy.

The mighty snake hissed appealingly when it saw who was approaching it.

“Harry…ssss…Potter…ssss…”

“Voldemort, you’re going to stay dead this time!”

Harry was floating on his broom directly in front of the snake’s head. The serpent’s eyes shown
with utter disdain. Opening its mouth, the snake revealed two huge razor-sharp fangs ready to sink
into Harry’s body. The young wizard barely moved out of the way when Voldemort lunged to take a
bite of him.

“You’re quite fast I sssseeee.”

“I’m just getting started. Care to try again?” Harry taunted.

Voldemort hissed angrily and went after him with a vengeance.

Inside Hogwarts’ medical wing, Madam Pomfrey was tending to Hermione’s wounds. Ron and Lavender
were by her side, waiting to hear the news.

“Will she be all right?” Ron asked worriedly.

“Eventually…yes, but she’s gonna need about a week to recover. She sustained a lot of damage to
her internal organs, and she’s lost a lot of blood. I’d hate to think what would’ve happened if she
hadn’t been brought here sooner.”

“I hate to think what Harry would’ve done!” Lavender said with a smile.

“Harry!” Ron gasped. In his rush to help Hermione, he’d completely forgotten.

“Don’t worry, I’m sure he’s fine,” his girlfriend replied and squeezed his hand. It was then
that two heard a loud hissing noise coming from outside.

Rushing to the window, Ron pushed it open, and his eyes near bulged out of his head.

“What in bloody hell?”

“It’s a giant snake!” Lavender gulped. “And look who’s flying around it.”

They both watched at Harry ducked and dove around the snake’s head, several times nearly
avoiding being chomped by its massive fangs.

“I don’t get it. Where’s You-Know-Who?” Lavender asked, “I thought Harry was fighting him.”

It was then that Ron saw the serpent’s eyes – their blood-red shade.

“I…I…I think that snake is You-Know-Who!”

Harry swerved out of the way as Voldemort took another swipe at him. What was he supposed to do?
Trying to run through plans of attack while dodging a giant snake was not that easy.

‘Come on, Potter, think! Use your brain for once – just like Hermione taught you.’

Then, it clicked – Hermione! Before he’d left, there was an assignment in Potions involving
poisonous snakes. He and Ron had hated the work as usual, but Hermione had been patient and showed
them what the method was for neutralizing and if possible killing a venomous serpent.

‘Dammit, I should have paid more attention to her!’

Harry rolled over to avoid Voldemort’s latest attack and continued his brainstorm.

‘What was it she said? A snake’s most vulnerable spot is…is…it’s head…no…’ Harry was getting
frustrated, ‘…wait a minute, the base of the head!’ Now, he had a plan.

Voldemort was getting aggravated at missing Harry time after time, and his hissed angrily at the
young wizard.

“This is the end for you, Potter!”

Harry banked to the side and avoided the attack. He flew up into the air and circled around for
his own attack. He couldn’t just fly right in, or he’d be chomped for sure. No, he needed a
distraction. Flying over Hogwarts one last time, Harry lined himself up for his attack. He had an
idea, but there was a price to pay – his Firebolt.

‘I’m sorry, old friend, but I don’t see any other way.’

Harry dove towards the mighty snake and readied his sword.

“Yessssss, Harry Potter, come…come to your death…ssss…”

Harry crossed his knees under his broomstick to steady it and extended his left hand. He saw the
snake opening its mouth ready to eat him alive. Just a little closer…

“INFLAMARE!”

Fire erupted under the serpent’s belly, and Voldemort wailed in pain. His eyes closed
momentarily, and when he felt something hit his jaw, he bit down and swallowed. The fire had burned
his outer scales, but it hadn’t done that much damage.

“Say goodbye, Harry Potter!” The snake laughed triumphantly.

What Voldemort couldn’t see was that Harry had apparated off his broomstick and onto the top of
the snake’s head. Clutching the sword of Gryffindor with both hands, he raised it above his
head.

“Goodbye!” he shouted.

Voldemort only had time to gasp before Harry drove the sword into the base of the snake’s head.
The Dark Lord howled in agony and immediately tried to throw off his attacker.

Harry was being jerked around wildly, but he held onto the sword and pushed it further and
further into the serpent’s head.

“Die, you bastard!” and he rammed it all the way inside.

The serpent wailed and hissed, and its head snapped from side to side as it tried to helplessly
dislodge the sword. Harry was flung into the air, and he hit the ground with a hard thud.

The snake collapsed to the ground twitching wildly and gasping its last breaths. At last, the
mighty head hit the earth for the last time. Upon its death, the body shriveled up and shrunk down
to a pile of scales and molted skin.

Harry slowly stood to his feet, holding his side. He felt like hell and had a headache the size
of a dragon. However, he could still feel the presence of evil magic and remembered what had
happened when Voldemort’s body had turned to ash.

Just as he predicted, Harry could see a dusk cloud rising from the corpse of the great serpent.
Voldemort was trying to escape – not this time.

“Voldemort!” Harry roared at the top of his lungs.

Using every bit of strength he had left, Harry extended his arms, and the phoenix exploded out
of his body. The young wizard rose into the air, and he raised his hands to the sky.

The dusk cloud howled in disgust and scurried towards the Dark Forest, but Harry was not going
to be denied any longer.

“I’ve had it with you, Voldemort, it’s over!” Harry thrust his hands forward.

“PHOENIX FLARE!!!”

When the words left Harry’s mouth, the phoenix separated from his body and dove toward the
escaping dust cloud. You could hear the once great Dark Lord Voldemort screaming in fear as he
tried to flee from the firebird’s pursuit, but it was to no avail. The phoenix caught the evil
wizard’s essence, and it erupted into a sphere of white-hot fire.

“AHHHHHHHHH!!!”

You could hear the demonic wail of the evil wizard echo through all of Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, and
perhaps even the entire planet. The fire continued to burn, consuming all that was Voldemort,
formerly known as Tom Riddle, as he was condemned to his own personal hell on Earth!

Harry watched the fire consume his mortal enemy, knowing that it was over at last. He remained
in the air until the flames had consumed the last of the Dark Lord’s essence. The phoenix returned
to Harry once it had finished its duty, and the firebird disappeared back into the young wizard’s
body. His task accomplished, Harry allowed himself to give into the pain and soreness that his body
was feeling, and he collapsed to the ground.

Back inside the main gate, Sirius, Remus, McGonagall, Fudge, and even Snape stood dumbstruck at
what they had just seen Harry do. Even Dumbledore was beside himself. He’d never thought that Harry
Potter carried such incredible power inside him. Their silent gawking was only broken when they saw
the young man’s body give out.

They all rushed to help him, which was quite difficult for Sirius and Dumbledore since they were
both still banged up from their earlier injuries. Minister Fudge was the first to reach him, and he
carefully rolled Harry onto his back.

The young wizard groaned in pain, and his eyes opened slightly. He saw himself surrounded by his
trainers, teachers, and occasional adversaries, but they were all his friends – one way or the
other.

“You okay, Harry?” Sirius asked as he leaned on Remus for support. He only got a nod for an
answer.

“You’re parents would be proud of you,” Dumbledore said with a warm smile. Harry cracked a small
smile at them.

“The nightmare is over.” Those were his last words before unconsciousness claimed him.

Harry slowly opened his eyes; he felt like bloody hell! Letting out a rather loud yawn, he
rubbed his eyelids and heard someone laughing next to his bed. His senses told him that he was in
the medical wing inside Hogwarts.

“Well…well…the dead have arisen,” a familiar voice teased.

“Shut-up Ron!” Harry groaned and rubbed his head. His best friend calmed down and put a serious
look on his face.

“You okay?”

“I think so…” Harry was cut short by an intense soreness in his left side, “…course, I could be
wrong.”

“Ron, where’s Hermione?” he asked; his voice dripping with worry.

“There,” his friend pointed, indicating the bed next his, “She’s pretty banged up, but Madam
Pomfrey said she’ll make it.”

Ignoring his body’s plea to stay put, Harry pulled off his blankets and stood up, steadying
himself with the bedpost.

“What are you doing?” Ron asked rather annoyed.

“I want to see her,” Harry said stubbornly.

Forcing his legs to move, he walked around the curtain separating their beds and saw her.
Hermione lay motionless on her back. Harry could tell she was asleep and carefully sat down by her
bedside. Her hands were wrapped in light gauze, and Harry could see a large bandage wrapped around
her midsection. There was a large bruise on her forehead and several scrapes on her face. Picking
up her small hand, he gently kissed her fingertips, and it caused her to stir slightly.

Harry couldn’t resist as his hand came us to caress her cheek. Even though she was bruised and
beaten up, her skin was still as soft as a feather.

Hermione slowly awakened to feel someone touching her face lovingly. Only one person knew how
she liked to be touched – Harry. Opening her eyes, she found his beautiful, emerald pools shining
down at her.

“Hey,” he said with a small smile.

“Hey.”

“Sweetheart, I’m so sorry,” Harry said, and he cupped her cheek.

“No Harry, it wasn’t your fault,” Hermione sighed and nuzzled his hand. Ron picked this as an
opportune time to leave them be.

“Hermione…” Harry’s arms came around her, and he hugged her softly.

“Ouch!” they both said at the same time.

“I should let you go.”

“No!” she objected, “Please don’t.”

“But I’m hurting you, Hermione.”

“I don’t care, Harry, just hold me. I’ve missed being in your arms.” He couldn’t say no to
her.

Harry clutched her to his chest and buried his face in her brown curls.

“I love you so much,” he said almost desperately. She cupped his face in her hands.

“I love you too.” She looked into his eyes and saw them moisten.

“Harry, you’re crying!” A single tear slid down his cheek…and then other and other.

“I know, I’m just…”

“But you never cry,” she interrupted. Harry finally broke down, and the floodgates opened.

“I’m sorry, Herm, it’s just that…when I saw you get hurt…and then cry out in pain…I just wanted
to crawl into a hole and die. I made a promise to myself and to you. I swore that I wouldn’t let
you get hurt, but you did anyway.”

“Oh Harry, nobody’s perfect, we’re together now. That’s all that matters.” He clutched her in
his arms, and she buried her face in his chest.

“Voldemort is finished, Hermione, he’ll never hurt us or anyone ever again.”

“I know, my love, I know.”

Harry lifted her chin and laid a gentle kiss on her lips. Hermione could taste the salt of his
tears on his lips, but it didn’t matter to her. She felt a strange sensation in the pit of her
stomach. The pain that was in her muscles and bones began to disappear, and she could sense magic
in the air.

“Harry, what did you just do?”

“I didn’t do anything. Why?”

“My pain is almost gone,” Hermione said in astonishment. She wiped the tearstains from his
cheeks, and something clicked in her mind.

“That’s it – your tears.”

“What about them?”

“Don’t you remember, Harry, a phoenix’s tears contain great healing power?”

“Oh yeah, you’re right…hey, wait a minute!” Harry gulped. Had he just heard her mention the
phoenix?

“Hermione, what did you just say?” She smiled at him tenderly.

“Harry, I know…about Gemstar… and the power you possess. Professor Dumbledore told me a few
months after you left. He felt that I deserved to know.”

“I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you, Herm, but I made him a promise that I wouldn’t tell anyone.
It was part of our plan. Forgive me?”

“Kiss me again, and I’ll think about it.”

“With pleasure, sweetheart.” Harry took her mouth greedily, and their tongues fought a long
awaited duel with one another.

Hermione groaned slightly, and Harry let her go. Healing magic or no healing magic, their bodies
still needed time to recuperate.

“We better get some rest, Herm.”

“Stay with me?” Her eyes pleaded with him.

“You know I can’t say no to you when you look at me like that!” That brought a wide grin to
Hermione’s lips.

“I know, Harry, I know.” She giggled softly and moved over.

Harry slipped under the covers, and Hermione practically fell into his arms. She laid her head
on his chest and sighed contently. His fingers combed through her long, brown locks, and Hermione
purred softly.

“Sweet dreams, Harry.” He chuckled at her choice of words and kissed her head.

“I plan to have very sweet dreams…of you,” he teased, and she smacked his chest playfully.

“Well then, I guess you won’t mind if I dream of you too.”

“Not at all, Herm. Who knows? Maybe we’ll have the same dream?”

“Goodnight, my love.” Hermione snuggled into his warmth, and Harry clutched her tightly.

“Goodnight, sweetheart.” Their eyes slowly closed eyes, and the two teenagers were asleep within
the next five minutes.



18. Reinstated
--------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Harry yawned softly and groggily opened his eyes. Yawning once more, he looked down beside him
to see that Hermione was still asleep on his chest. Smiling warmly, he ran his fingers over her
delicate cheek, and she turned into his palm. Let out a soft sigh, Hermione smiled and settled back
to sleep. With great reluctance, Harry unwrapped his arms from his lover, and he slid out of bed.
His legs were still a little stiff, but it was easier to walk this morning. The door opened, and
Ron and Lavender entered quietly.

“Harry!” Ron said quite loudly, and Lavender shushed him.

“Quiet you!”

“Hi guys.” Harry padded over to them, and Ron practically squeezed the life out of him.

“Welcome back!” he shouted in a whisper. “How ya feeling?”

“I’m okay – just a little sore from the battle and everything.”

“Damn Harry, you rocked out there! I don’t know what in bloody hell you did, but you kicked
Voldemort’s scaly butt!”

“Is Hermione up yet?” Lavender inquired looking around for her roommate.

“No, she’s still asleep; it’s the best thing for her right now.”

“All right, these are for her.” Lavender handed her a pile of clothes. “I figured she’d want
some fresh clothes later on.”

“Thanks Lavender, I know she’ll appreciate this,” Harry answered with a warm smile.

“Oh yeah, that reminds me, Harry, your things…” It was then that Harry Potter finally realized
that he was in fact only wearing a hospital gown.

“My clothes!”

“Don’t worry, you’ll be all right. They were pretty torn up so Dobby volunteered to fix them for
you; they should be done in about an hour.”

“Tell him thanks for me.”

Just then…

“Harry?” a soft voice called out. Walking back to the bed, Harry sat down next to a
just-awakening Hermione.

“Good morning,” Harry whispered and brushed her hair out of her face.

“Hi,” she answered quietly.

“Hey Herm!” Ron called and popped out from behind a nearby curtain.

“Hey girl, what’s up?” Lavender added as her head jutted out from around Ron’s right shoulder.
Hermione smiled at her friends.

“Hi guys, I’m glad to see you.”

“So are we. We were worried about you; you were really banged up yesterday!”

“I know, I’ve got the bruises to prove it!” Harry moved onto the bed and wrapped her in his
arms.

“But then again, I’ve got the best cure for aches and pains right here,” and she nuzzled Harry’s
neck playfully. He chuckled lightly, and Ron grinned wryly at the two of them.

“Jeez, you two, not even twenty-four hours and you’re already making out!”

“I beg your pardon!” Harry interjected, “This is not making out…this is called tender loving
care!”

“And I love it!” Hermione cooed happily and put her head on his chest.

“You two will never change!” Lavender giggled.

“Am I interrupting?” Dumbledore interjected. All four teenagers gasped in shock.

“Professor?” Ron gulped audibly.

“Sir, are you feeling better?” Harry asked worriedly. Dumbledore smiled a toothy grin at
him.

“Come now, my boy, I may be old, but I’ve still got my spunk! I see that you’re doing better as
well, Miss Granger.”

“Yes, Professor Dumbledore, I think I’ll be well in time for final exams.”

“Relax, my dear, don’t push yourself. You were hurt very badly; you should let your body
recuperate. In the meantime, Harry?”

“Yes sir?”

“If you feel up to it, Minister Fudge wishes to speak with you – privately.” Harry felt his
mouth turn dry.

“I’ll be ready in an hour, professor.”

“Very well, come to my office when you’re ready.” With that, the wise, old wizard left the
hospital wing.

“Harry, are you nuts? Do you remember what Fudge did to you last time?” Ron shouted.

“Of course, I do, but I can’t just blow him off.”

“Maybe he’ll congratulate you for destroying Voldemort!” Lavender piped up.

“Yeah right, Fudge will properly come up with a story for the Daily Prophet saying that it
wasn’t really You-Know-Who who attacked Hogwarts, and that a Ministry task force of Aurors defeated
the last remnants of the Death Eaters.”

“I highly doubt that, Ron,” Hermione interjected, “It’d be impossible for him to prove it.”

“What do you mean?”

“There were over a thousand witnesses that saw Harry fight him, right?”

“That’s right, Herm, Lavender and I saw the whole thing. You should have seen it! This giant
firebird exploded from Harry’s body and fried the bastard to a cinder.”

“Giant firebird?” Hermione gasped, staring up at her boyfriend. She knew about Harry’s secret,
but she’d never actually seen his power.

“I’ll explain later, okay?” Harry pleaded.

“Come on, pal, how’d you do it?” Ron prodded.

“I don’t know, really! I just felt these words inside my head and said them. Next
minute…bam!”

“Jeez Harry, remind me never to get you angry!” Lavender chuckled.

Harry’s sharp eyes picked up movement in the corner of the room. Draco Malfoy stood with a scowl
on his face. He was standing next to a bed, and the occupant was heavily bandaged. Suddenly, Harry
realized that it was in fact Lucius Malfoy.

“What’s Malfoy doing here?” Ron growled.

“Leave him alone,” Harry stated. His friends looked at him in shock. “He may be a pain, but his
father’s hurt right now so let him deal with it in his own way.”

Surprising everyone, Harry got up out of bed and slowly walked over to where Draco Malfoy
stood.

“What do you want, Potter?” the blonde, young man hissed menacingly.

“I wanted to apologize!” That made everyone gasp.

“For what?” Harry took a deep breath.

“I should’ve stopped your father without hurting him this much. I was just so angry that I lost
control. Look, I know that we’ll never be friends, but I don’t want to be enemies all the time
either. You probably hate me right now, but at least know that I never wanted to hurt you or your
father.”

“It doesn’t matter what you think, Potter, you just got lucky. My father got caught off guard –
nothing more.”

Harry shook his head in resignation; sometimes it was just impossible to reason with people.
Malfoy was still too proud and arrogant to accept the fact that his family had lost so
decisively.

The young wizard returned to his friends, and Ron looked at him like he was completely nuts.
Even Hermione had a hard time not trying to stare at him strangely.

“Harry, why in bloody hell did you apologize to him?” Ron groaned and crossed his arms. His best
friend sat back down on the bed next to Hermione.

“Look Ron, Malfoy’s an arrogant jerk; I won’t argue with you on that. But…regardless of how he
acts, no one should be forced to see their parents like that. I never knew my parents, and even if
Draco’s father is a hundred times worse than he is, Lucius is still his father. I didn’t apologize
for fighting his father; I apologized for losing control of my temper.”

“You’re too noble for your own good,” Hermione teased and clutched his hand. She pecked him on
the cheek, and Harry blushed slightly. He wrapped his arms around her once again and cradled her in
his lap.

Dobby came by the infirmary a little over an hour later with Harry’s clothes.

“Here you are, Harry Potter, Dobby and Winky fix your clothes in record time!”

“Thanks a lot, tell Winky I said hi,” Harry said with a smile.

“Of course, I go help prepare dinner now. Goodbye!” The little, house elf disappeared out the
door.

Harry quickly dressed and gave Hermione a soft kiss before heading for the headmaster’s
office.

Harry Potter walked past the gargoyle and into Dumbledore’s office. Seated inside were, Remus,
Moody, Sirius, Dumbledore at his desk, and Minister Fudge.

“Ah Harry, you’re looking better I see,” Dumbledore stated with a small smile.

“Blimey, ya dun good, my boy!” Moody laughed drunkenly.

“Harry Potter…” It was Fudge who spoke this time, “…you could be imprisoned for what you have
learned and so could everyone else here for allowing you to learn such powerful magic at your age.
However, I see that you have mastered your skills quite well so I will not take action concerning
that.”

“Thank you, sir,” Harry answered with a sigh.

“The only other remaining matter is that you violated your expulsion by returning to Hogwarts.
You defied a direct order from the Ministry of Magic!”

“Minister Fudge, I came back here to help my friends. Voldemort existed because of me, and it
was my responsibility to see that he was destroyed…once and for all.”

“I see, and are you prepared to accept the consequences of your actions?” Cornelius asked with a
slight glare.

“If helping those in need and protecting the ones you love is a crime, then yes, I am guilty.”
Fudge’s glare turned into a wide grin.

“Albus was right, Harry, you have grown into quite a man. However, I still see that you are
quite wild and need to be taught a bit more discipline. Therefore, the ministry has unanimously
decreed that you will be allowed to return to Hogwarts for your seventh year. During that time, I
expect you to learn some respect. Do I make myself clear?”

“Sir, are you serious? Am I really allowed to come back?” Dumbledore stepped in.

“Yes, Harry, your reinstatement is effective immediately, and your marks for your current term
will be based on the work that you did prior to your departure. The only thing left for you to do
before this term ends is to take the N. E. W. T. S, and I trust that Miss Granger and Mr. Weasley
can help with that.”

“Yes sir!” Harry nearly shouted.

“Harry…” Fudge spoke up once again, “…in addition to your reinstatement, the Ministry of Magic
is also awarding you the Order of Merlin for you courage and efforts.”

“I cannot accept that, Minister Fudge.” Everyone in the room gawked at him.

“Harry, what are you saying?” Sirius gasped.

“Are you mad, boy?” Moody chimed in.

“How can you refuse that?” Remus added.

Cornelius Fudge just stood there in shock. He was bestowing a great honor on the young wizard,
but he had declined it. Why?

“If I may…” Harry interrupted, “…I don’t deserve to receive that commendation. Too many people
helped me win this battle. Nothing that I’ve achieved could have been done alone. Even my magical
power was enhanced by Professor Dumbledore’s phoenix. I can’t take credit for other people’s
work.”

“Do you understand what you’re saying, young Potter?” Fudge asked incredulously.

“Yes sir, I do. What I suggest is that if you truly want to award it to me then wait. Wait
several years and judge my merit on things that have nothing to do with Voldemort. My reputation
and fame is based solely on the fact that I stopped the Dark Lord. I don’t want to be known for
that; I want to start fresh and build my own life.”

“Well, if that is your wish, then I will not deny it.” Cornelius was at a loss for words; this
young man was truly amazing. Now, he finally understood why Harry Potter was so special; his soul
was pure.

“If that is all, Cornelius, I suggest we allow Harry to go so that he can begin studying. Your
things should have been returned to your room by now so you may go now, Harry,” Dumbledore said
with a crooked grin.

“Thank you, professor.”

Harry had to stop himself from running out of the room. He couldn’t believe it; he was allowed
to come back to Hogwarts! It was too good to be true. He couldn’t wait to tell Hermione. After
everything that had happened lately, she could use some good news.



19. To the Victor go the Spoils
-------------------------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Harry bolted down to the hospital wing and nearly threw the door off its hinges. Madam Pomfrey
scowled at him as he raced in, but he just ignored her.

“Where’d Hermione go?” he gasped, noting that her bed was empty, and her things were gone.

“That stubborn girl! She insisted on leaving; there was nothing that I could do.”

“Sounds like Herm, thanks!” Harry flew back out the door.

Harry raced up to the Gryffindor tower and nearly ran over several students on his way up to the
dormitories. He burst into Hermione’s room, and she snapped around with a screech.

“Harry, don’t you knock!” she gasped.

It happened that she was in the middle of changing, and all that covered her body was just a
button-down shirt and her lingerie. Before she could object, he slammed the door and swept her off
her feet. Harry was laughing his head off, and Hermione was getting dizzy.

“Put me down, you dope!”

“Sorry, but I’m just happy!” he piped up.

“I can see that; now tell me why?”

“I’m back, Herm, I’m back to stay!” Harry said with a huge smile.

“What are you talking about?”

“Minister Fudge reinstated me at Hogwarts!” The smile on Hermione’s face could have outshone a
star.

“Harry!” she cried and threw her arms around him, “You’re really back to stay!”

“Yup, you’re stuck with me, sweetheart.”

“You’ll have to work really hard to be ready for exams, but I’ll help you study.”

At that moment, Harry’s eyes darkened, and Hermione felt herself melting under his intense gaze.
She knew this look from him; she’d seen it several times during the night they’d spent
together.

“Hermione, I see something that I want to study right now.” He cupped her cheek in his hand and
bent down to kiss her lips.

Within a second, her arms were around his neck, and she was lost in his arms. Hermione pressed
up against him, and they both groaned as their injuries interrupted their intimacy.

“Oh Harry, we can’t do this now; I look horrible!”

“Hush,” he quieted, “you’re beautiful, my Hermione.”

Without hesitation, Harry picked her up and laid her down on her bed. With a snap of his
fingers, the door locked and was sealed magically. No one was going to walk in on them this
time.

Harry claimed her mouth in a heated kiss; he’d waited ages to kiss her like this again. Hermione
was powerless under his spell and clung to him desperately. His tongue swarmed around her mouth,
dueling with hers in a lovers’ dance, and his fingers began undoing her shirt. Unfortunately, Harry
let a little too much of his weight down on her, and Hermione let out a groan of pain.

“Um…” Harry immediately broke away, and he saw her close her mouth trying not to moan in agony.
It was then that he decided.

“Sweetheart, we need to stop; I can’t do this to you. I know you want to, but you’re hurt
badly.” He moved off of her body and lay down next to her.

Hermione turned towards him with tears in her eyes.

“I’m sorry, Harry, I’m sorry that we can’t be together.”

“Hush, my love, there’s no need to apologize. Don’t worry, our time will come; I promise
you.”

Harry gently wrapped his arms around her, and Hermione carefully settled herself into his
embrace. She situated herself so that her ribs wouldn’t hurt and laid her head on his shoulder.

“Harry, can I ask you something?”

“Sure Herm, anything.” She looked up at him with her big, brown eyes.

“Well, I was wondering…would you like to come to my house for the summer?”

“You mean stay with your family?”

“That would be implied, yes,” Hermione giggled.

“Hmm,” Harry’s eyebrows crooked up as he thought about it, “I’d love to – if your parents
wouldn’t mind.”

“I don’t think they would. I’d already sent a letter to my mom asking if a friend could stay
with us for the summer. When she’d agreed, I’d admitted that it was guy not a girl, and she’d
immediately asked if it was a boyfriend.”

“What’d you say?”

“I told her that it was my boyfriend, and I felt that she and my dad should meet him. The next
thing I know, my mom says yes. So, you can come if you want. You think your aunt and uncle will let
you?”

“Are you nuts? Do you how happy they’ll be to be rid of me for the summer? I can go to their
house for the first couple of days, then you and your parents can pick me up.”

“That sounds great. I know that my parents will love you – just like I do.” Hermione nuzzled his
neck playfully.

“I hope not like you, or I’ll be in serious trouble!” Harry chuckled.

“Hey!” she gasped, and her head popped up, “Get your mind out of the gutter, Potter!”

“Yes mom.”

“Don’t start with me, love, you know you can’t win an argument with me.”

“Sure, I can, I just have to shut you up.” Before Hermione could say anything, Harry covered her
mouth with his. He caressed her cheek while drinking from her sweet lips.

“Harry…” Hermione sighed as he kissed her neck, “…I’m gonna regret saying this, but I need to
get dressed. We have a lot of work to do if you’re gonna be ready for final exams.” The young man
lifted his head from her neck and smiled tenderly.

“Okay sweetheart,” Harry gave her one last kiss and helped her to sit up, “I wait for you down
in the common room.”

He reluctantly let Hermione go and unlocked the door. Giving her a soft smile, Harry exited her
room and headed down the stairs.

Hermione took a deep breath to clear her head then dug through her drawers looking for a skirt
to wear to dinner. She quickly finished dressed and grabbed her Gryffindor robes off her chair.
Nearly bouncing down the stairs, Hermione headed for the common room to meet up with Harry.

“Thank God that’s over!” Ron groaned as he, Harry, and Hermione exited Snape’s dungeon. They’d
just finished their last exam – Potions. It had been brutal this time and had bordered on cruel and
unusual punishment.

“Oh c’mon, Ron, it wasn’t that bad. I actually found it rather easy,” Hermione said with
smile.

“You would, Herm, your brain’s a bottomless pit when it comes to information. Us normal people
ain’t so lucky.”

“At least, we’re done with exams, Ron.”

“Harry’s right! Besides, aren’t you forgetting the special ball we’re having tonight?” Ron
perked up at Hermione’s reminder.

“No, I didn’t forget. Guess I was just preoccupied. Besides, I haven’t seen Lavender all day
anyway.”

As if fate could hear his words, Lavender came out of the door leading to the astronomy tower,
and she smiled brightly at seeing her friends.

“Hi handsome,” she cooed softly and pecked Ron on the lips. The young man blushed slightly as
Harry and Hermione tried to keep a straight face.

“I missed you,” Ron whispered in her ear. Lavender giggled happily and nuzzled his neck.

“Jeez Ron, and you complain about Herm and I,” Harry mock groaned and smacked his hand against
his forehead.

“Buzz off, Potter, I’m busy right now!” his best friend said with a sarcastic tone.

“All right, you two, enough squabbling. So Lavender, did you find a dress for tonight?” Hermione
asked.

“Yeah, I found one when we went to Hogsmeade a few days ago. How ‘bout you?”

“I’m all set. I never got a chance to wear mine yet.” Hermione’s eyes turned towards Harry, and
he knew what she was talking about.

‘Oh man, if she’s talking about the dress I’m thinking about, this is gonna be a great night.’
Harry smiled slyly, and his girlfriend winked at him.

“Okay, what gives? Why are you two grinning like Cheshire cats?” Ron asked with his arms
crossed.

“Just a personal joke,” they both said at the same time.

The whole wizarding was in an uproar when news of Voldemort’s demise circulated throughout the
world. There had been celebrating, celebrating, and more celebrating. It had been going on for a
week now, and it seemed to not have even gotten started yet.

At Hogwarts, Professor Dumbledore had arranged a ball for the students and professors. It was to
celebrate the ending of the Dark Lord’s reign, a way to make up to the seventh year students for
ruining their graduation, and unofficially, to welcome Harry Potter back to Hogwarts.

When Minister Fudge had wanted to publicly thank him for defeating Voldemort once and for all,
Harry had immediately declined it. He didn’t want to make a spectacle of himself in front of all
the students. He was modest by nature, and the last thing he wanted was for everyone to think he
was a snob.

Although they weren’t used to such a large venture this late in the year, the house elves did
not complain and immediately went to work preparing the lavish meal for the party.

Harry and Ron sat in the Gryffindor common room waiting for their dates to come down the stairs.
Harry had chosen a pair of black dress slacks, black leather shoes with a white trim along the
sides, a black turtleneck, and a green sweater. He’d also put in his contacts for the evening so
his green eyes shown brilliantly in the firelight. His dress robes hung loosely around his
shoulders as he leaned up against the wall. Ron decided to go with a pair of dark khaki pants,
brown boat shoes, a white button-down dress shirt, and a black vest. The sound of footsteps coming
down the stairs drew the young men’s attention, and Lavender entered the room.

“Wow!” Ron’s jaw hit the floor.

She was dressed in a slinky, red dress that could match Ron’s hair color exactly. She had on red
high heels and a dark shade of red lipstick that made her lips look quite enticing to a certain
young Weasley.

“Hey you,” Lavender teased and shut his mouth for him.

“Uh…uh…hi…gosh…you look…I don’t know what to say!”

“Then you like it?” Ron’s eyes glittered mischievously.

“I love it, and I love you.” He caught her lips with a soft kiss, and Lavender wrapped her arms
his neck.

“Hmm, that was nice, but we’d better wipe your mouth off,” she laughed, noting that Ron’s lips
were now quite red with her lipstick.

“You look great, Lavender,” Harry said with a friendly smile.

“Thanks,” she replied and blushed.

“Anybody miss me?” Harry’s eyes lit up when he recognized the voice, and he turned his head
towards the stairs.

There stood Hermione in that same tight, black dress. She was supposed to have worn it to the
Winter Ball, but she and Harry decided to stay in that night. She gracefully descended the stairs,
and Harry extended his arm.

“You look beautiful, sweetheart.” Her cheeks flushed slightly, and Hermione kissed him
lightly.

“Thank you, you look quite dashing yourself – and Ron too.”

“Damn Herm, is that really you?” Ron gawked. He’d never seen Hermione in a skirt that was less
than knee-length before.

Hermione had straightened her hair so it ran down to her waist. A slight amount of blush adorned
her face, she had on a soft, pink lip-gloss, and her dress robes hung around her shoulders. By now,
the bruises on her face and arms had healed – thanks to Madam Pomfrey -, but she still had a small
black and blue mark on her left ribs.

“Hey Hermione, I thought you were wearing heels with that dress?” Lavender asked.

“I decided not to; I don’t dance well in heels.” Instead, she’d gone with a pair of black flats
to go with her dress. Her eyes turned towards Harry.

“You will dance with me won’t you?”

“Of course, I will. I don’t know how good I’ll be, but I’ll try.” Hermione smiled and kissed his
cheek.

“Don’t worry, love, you’ll do fine. C’mon let’s go.”

Linking her arm through his, the couple headed out the portrait hole with Ron and Lavender right
behind them.

Just as they exited the portrait hole, they ran into Lupin and Sirius.

“Hello Harry,” the two men greeted.

“We brought you something.” Reaching into his robes, Sirius pulled out a familiar item and
tossed it towards Harry.

“My broom!” he gasped and clutched his Firebolt tightly. “But how?”

“After the battle, we found it among the snake’s remains. It had a few smoke marks on it, but it
wasn’t damaged.”

“We also found your sword, Harry,” Remus added.

“My sword?” he asked confused. “You mean Godric’s sword; it made it too!”

“Yes, Professor Dumbledore put it back in his office for safe keeping.”

“This is great!” Harry said happily.

“Well, we’ll see all of you downstairs then.” The two men headed down towards the Great Hall,
and Harry turned towards his friends.

“Hang on, I’ll be right back.”

He raced up to his room and put his Firebolt underneath bed, smiling brightly at him it back
when he’d thought he’d lost it for good. Nearly flying back down the stairs, he found Hermione
waiting him and took her hand. Together, they followed Ron and Lavender down to the ball.

The quartet approached the Great Hall to hear the party had already started. The tables had been
removed to make room for the students to dance, and instead, they ran along the side walls for
students to sit down at. Once again, the Weird Sisters had been invited to play at the ball, and
everyone was enjoying the music.

Harry escorted Hermione to the Gryffindor section of seats and held out her chair for her.
Smiling warmly, she took her seat, and Harry dropped into the chair beside her. Ron and Lavender
immediately headed for the dance floor, and Hermione poked Harry in the side.

“Hey, wanna dance?”

“Sure.” Harry stood up and extended his hand.

“Miss Granger, may I have the pleasure of this dance?”

“It would be an honor, Mr. Potter.”

The two entered the fray of students dancing just as a fast rock piece was coming to an end. The
next song was slow and soothing, and Harry silently thanked the band for helping him out.

Without hesitation, Hermione stepped into her lover’s arms, and she felt him wrap her in his
embrace. They would not be separated tonight. Her arms came up around his neck, and she laid her
head on his chest.

Harry could feel several pairs of eyes on them. Hermione had left her dress robes on her chair,
and he could see quite a few guys eyeing her with lustful eyes.

“What is it?” Hermione asked softly as they begun to sway around the floor.

“Nothing. Just every guy I see seems to be undressing you with their eyes.” She could feel him
tense and rubbed the back of his neck.

“Relax Harry, don’t worry about it. Besides, you’re the only one who has permission to undress
me,” she cooed.

“Don’t tempt me, sweetheart, it’s gonna be hell just getting through tonight. Between you and
how you look in that dress and how much I’ve missed you, it’ll be a miracle if I survive this.”
Hermione giggled into his chest.

“I’ll make you a promise, love. If you can last for half the ball, I’ll give you something
special.”

“Why only half?” She lifted her head, and Harry groaned at the desire burning in her brown
eyes.

“Cause that’s all patience I have left.”

“Well, for now, let’s just enjoy this.”

Harry buried his face in her hair, and Hermione rested her face in the crook of his neck.

At the front of the Great Hall, the professors sat at their customary long table. Professor
Dumbledore had a small smile on his face as he looked at the crowd of students dancing and
celebrating. His sharp eyes easily picked out Harry and Hermione. They weren’t that hard to miss;
they were emitting a powerful aura; and it had nothing to do with magical powers.

Everything was back to normal – as it should be. Harry had finally found himself in all this
turmoil, and in the process, fallen in love with a wonderful girl. It was indeed a joyous night.
Deciding that he could use a little fun himself, Dumbledore rose to his feet attracting his
colleagues’ attention.

“Minerva, would you like to dance?” Professor McGonagall stared at him like he was out of his
mind.

“Are you serious, Albus?” she gasped.

“Certainly. I may be old, but I can still cut a mean rug. Shall we?”

“Well…I…I guess it couldn’t hurt.”

The students were quite surprised to see the headmaster on the dance floor, but they parted and
allowed the professors to dance.

Harry was trying hard to keep a straight face, but his chest rumbled with unreleased laughter.
Hermione opened her eyes, and she looked up at him in surprise.

“What’s so funny?”

“Turn around, Herm.”

Hermione turned her head to see Professor Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall swirling around
the Great Hall. She too had a hard time controlling her laughter.

“Now, there’s something you don’t see everyday!” Ron chirped as he and Lavender approached.

“Yeah, now I know that Dumbledore’s in a good mood,” Harry laughed.

The ball was indeed wonderful. Halfway through the evening’s festivities, fireworks lit up the
night sky, and everyone watched them through the transparent ceiling. While everyone was occupied
with the light show, Harry and Hermione slipped out of the Great Hall and towards Gryffindor
Tower.

By the time they made it through the portrait hole, it was nearly impossible for them to keep
their hands off each other. Hermione’s hands were buried in Harry’s wild, brown hair, and his arms
were stroking her sides while his lips dueled hungrily with hers.

“Na uh!” Hermione danced out of his arms and turned around to face him. Her eyes were blazing
with desire, and her lips curved into a seductive smile.

“Come on.”

She led him up the staircase to her room and pressed herself up against the door. She beckoned
him to her, and Harry followed like a lost puppy. Hermione dropped her dress robes on the floor,
and Harry slammed the door shut.

“Lochanus!” At his command, the doorway was once again sealed with a magical lock. Taking one
long stride, he enveloped his lover in his arms.

“Hermione, you’re breathtaking.”

“This is our night, my love. Make me yours again, Harry.”

Harry kissed her until they both nearly suffocated. His lips traveled down her neck and onto the
soft skin of her shoulders. Hermione twisted in his arms and raised her arms up around his neck.
She pressed herself back against him and moaned in approval when she felt his arousal growing
against her backside.

“Sweetheart…” Harry murmured as his hands slid down her back, “…As much as I love you in this
dress, you look a hundred times better out of it.”

Hermione could feel him unzipping her dress, and she leaned forward slightly so the straps slid
off her shoulders. Gliding his hands down her ribcage, Harry easily slid the silky material from
her body.

“Dear God!” It seemed that black was Hermione’s color tonight, and she laughed as Harry gulped
at the sexy, black lingerie he found her wearing.

“I wanted to surprise you; you’ve already seen my dress.” Her lover groaned huskily.

“Don’t to it too often, sweetheart, or you’re gonna kill me.”

“My turn now.”

Hermione spun around and undid his loose robes. Pushing them off his broad shoulders, she
immediately went to work on his sweater and turtleneck. Harry obediently raised his arms, and she
tugged them over his head all at once. Her next target was his pants, and her eyes began to burn
with lustful anticipation.

“Just a second,” Harry interrupted. He kicked off his shoes and nodded his head for her to
continue. Hermione kissed him hungrily and dropped his pants to the floor.

Stepping out of their clothes, the two lovers entwined in an intimate embrace. Harry wrapped her
in his strong arms, and Hermione went limp as he kissed her. She backed him towards the bed, and he
stumbled when his knees hit the side of the bed. Harry tumbled back onto her mattress, and Hermione
smiled seductively from above him.

Harry gulped at the fiendish smile on her lips, and he could feel sweat forming on his brow as
Hermione slid on top of him. Swinging one long leg across his body, she straddled his waist and ran
her hands up his chest. Sitting up on his lap, Hermione ran her hand across his face and smiled
tenderly. Watching his face intently, she reached back to unfasten her bra and licked her lips when
his eyes darkened with passion. She leaned down on top of him, and the garment slid down her
arms.

Harry’s hands eagerly slid up her ribcage and cupped the soft mounds. Hermione moaned softly as
he caressed her. He drew her down for a long, sweet kiss, and she gasped when he flipped her onto
her back.

“Let me touch you, my Hermione.” She conceded and let him have his way as his gentle hands
kneaded her soft curves.

“Oh Harry…I love the way you touch me.” Placing a tender kiss upon her swollen lips, he began to
descend down her body.

Harry kept his weight on his arms, as he didn’t want to aggravate any bruises that Hermione
still had on her skin. Wanting to please her as much as possible, Harry brushed his mouth across
her breast, and she tensed at the new sensation. Already loving the taste of her flesh, Harry
wasted no time as he flicked his tongue over her hardening nipple.

“Harry!” his lover gasped as he tasted her essence.

Hermione felt her body lock up when his mouth closed over her breast, and she grabbed hold of
his hair. He moved back thinking that he had hurt her, but she pushed him back against her bosom
wanting him to have as much as he wanted. Harry slowly feasted on her firm breasts, alternating
between them so that each of her womanly globes received equal attention.

“Hermione…” Harry sighed as he slid even lower down her body.

His fingers curled under her panties, and she raised her hips to aid him. At the first sight of
her femininity, Harry thought he’d died and gone to heaven. He could seeing her nectar dripping out
of her, and it made his mouth water thinking about how she tasted.

Hermione looked down to see what he was doing, and she was surprised to see him lowering his
head between her thighs. She suddenly realized the very personal thing that he was going to do for
her, but nothing prepared her for the first touch of his mouth against her center.

Harry felt her tremble and grinned as she turned to putty in his arms. He kissed her soft rose
once again and brushed his fingers against the soft folds of skin. Hermione clenched the sheets in
her hands, and she arched her back in sheer delight. The moment that Harry tasted her sweetness, he
became addicted. Carefully opening her to his explorations, he thrust his tongue inside her,
drinking up her juices as they poured from her body.

“Harry…my love…don’t…” Hermione choked out as tears appeared in her eyes. Her lover froze
immediately.

“I’m sorry, Hermione.” Harry stopped, but she grabbed him by the hair again.

“Don’t stop…please don’t stop…” she finally finished, “It felt so good, my darling.”

The young wizard resumed his treatment, and his lover moaned her approval as he drank in her
essence.

Hermione could feel the tension building in her body, but she didn’t want to go without Harry
with her. Twirling her fingers into his hair, she pulled his face from her core, and he looked at
her quizzically.

“No Harry, not like that, come here.” She reached out for him, and Harry took his place above
her once again.

Hermione’s small hand reached down and tugged on his shorts. With a few firm pulls, they joined
her panties on the floor, and her hands came to rest on his waist. Wanting to please him as he had
her, she nervously slid her right hand down between his legs and found the hard length of his
shaft.

“Oh Hermione…” Harry closed his eyes and groaned deeply when her delicate fingers curled around
him.

‘My gosh, did I really cause this?’ Hermione asked herself. He felt so hot in her hand; she was
afraid that he would explode. Knowing that they’d both waited long enough, Hermione guided the head
of his member to her waiting entrance. Harry gazed down at her, and green eyes met brown.

“I want this, Harry, I want you inside me again. Make love to me, my beloved hero.”

“Anything for you, my angel.” Harry kissed her so hard that he was afraid her lips would be
bruised in the morning.

Hermione spread her legs, and Harry settled himself against her. Grasping her hips, he slowly
pushed into her waiting body.

“Sweet Merlin!” She was so willing for him, and it felt so good to be in her like this.

‘This is so wonderful! It doesn’t hurt at all,’ Hermione thought as Harry slid completely inside
her. It felt like an overwhelming emptiness within her had been filled at last.

“Hermione?” She opened her eyes to see Harry looking at her.

“Don’t worry, it doesn’t hurt at all. It feels so good with you inside me.” The sparkle in her
eyes rammed home her words, and his face broke out in a broad smile.

With their arms around each other, the two lovers began their dance – moving in complete
harmony. Harry plunged into her sweet, hot depths practically growling his satisfaction as Hermione
gave herself to him completely.

‘I’ve never seen him so passionate before; his eyes look so amazing.’

Hermione watched him as he once again suckled her breasts. After a few minutes, he moved up to
her face and tasted her lips. His hands continued to assault her breasts, and she writhed beneath
him as he pleasured her entire body. Soft moans escaped her lips, and her hips began to buck in
counterpoint to his thrusts. Her body was winding up to snap any moment…

“I love you, Hermione Granger,” Harry moaned as he buried his face against her neck. That was
all she needed.

“Harry!” Her world exploded into blazing white light as an overwhelming release flooded her
body. She screamed so loud the windows nearly cracked, and her fingernails dug into his
shoulders.

Harry groaned as her insides tightened and pulsed around his member, begging him to answer her
climax, but he would not give in just yet. He spread her thighs and pushed even deeper into her
body. Hermione shrieked, and her legs snapped around his waist. She squeezed him against her
wanting to push him completely inside her.

“Yes Harry…like that…deep inside me…”

“That’s where I want to be, sweetheart.”

He pumped into her faster and faster until Hermione was practically panting in his ear. She was
nearly humping his pelvic bone with the gyrations of her hips, and she plunged her tongue into his
mouth.

“Give it to me, my love, take me now!” Hermione nearly screamed. With one final, deep thrust,
Harry saw stars explode before his eyes.

“HERMIONE!” he cried out, pouring himself into the depths of her supple body.

“HARRY!” she answered him, plummeting over the abyss of ecstasy one last time.

Groggily, Harry lifted his head from her neck and huffed into the pillow, trying to catch his
breath. He looked down at Hermione underneath him. Her eyes were still closed, and sweat gleamed on
her skin. He brushed a few stray locks out of her face and brushed her lips with his.

“Hmm,” Hermione sighed and slowly cracked open her eyelids. She found herself staring into the
most beautiful pair of emerald eyes in the world. Draping her arms around his neck, she giggled at
his messed up hair.

“We’re getting good at making up for lost time, aren’t we?”

“The longer we wait, the sweeter it is.” He kissed her softly once again.

“Well…” Hermione curled a lock of his hair around her finger, “…I’d say we’ve waited long enough
don’t you?” His eyes lit up with a passionate hunger.

“Absolutely.” Harry began caressing her, starting another round of lovemaking, when Hermione
suddenly flipped him over.

“Uh uh…this time…I’m on top.” Her wicked smile and nude body made Harry’s mind swim with
countless images of what she could do to him.

Hermione’s smile widened when she felt him regaining his hardness inside her. Good, his fire was
just as hot as hers. Using her calf muscles, she pushed herself up then used her weight to drive
back down onto him.

“Oh Hermione…you’re so good,” he groaned as she slowly began to ride him.

“It’s my turn to please you, my hero.” Harry watched her with lust-laden eyes as Hermione
carried them off into oblivion once again.



20. Summer Awaits
-----------------

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter. They are the property of J. K.
Rowling.

Everyone at Hogwarts slept in the following morning as they’d all been up so late celebrating
anyway. Today was their last day at school; it was time to return home for the summer.

Harry and Ron were busy packing their things, when something fell out of one of Harry’s pants
pocket.

“Hey, what’s this?” Ron asked as he picked up a small, square, velvet case.

“Don’t!” Harry gasped and made a grab for it.

“Oh, no you don’t!”

Ron danced away from him and popped open the lid. His mouth dropped open when he saw a gorgeous
ring inside. It was solid gold, and it had what appeared to a firebird carved into it. Two small
diamonds provided its eyes, and Harry grabbed the box out of his best friend’s hand.

“What is that?”

“Nothing!”

“Yeah right. Come on, Harry, that looks like an engagement ring to me.” That was when it
clicked.

“No way! Are you gonna to ask Herm to marry you?”

“Shut-up Ron!” Harry growled and closed the box.

“You are…aren’t you?” Ron asked with a very annoying smile. “Come on, you know that I’ll nag you
until you answer me anyway.”

“All right…all right…yes, it is an engagement ring. But don’t you dare tell Hermione about this.
I’m going to her house this summer, and I’ll meet her parents so I don’t you blabbing about this on
the train ride home.”

“Fine Harry, but when are you gonna ask her?” Ron asked with excitement in his voice.

“None of your business! Look, I want to make a good impression on her parents and actually talk
to them about Herm and I. Yes, I want to marry her, but I think that it’d be best if we finished
school first. There’s no reason for us to rush anyway.”

“Ah, but Harry, then you won’t be able to see her ‘au natural’,” Ron laughed, but he froze when
he saw his best friend trying not to grin.

“Bloody hell! Don’t me that you two…that you…no way!”

“Yes way!” Harry answered with a sly smile.

“Well, I’ll be a two-headed gnome! So that’s why you both disappeared last night. You skipped
the ball in favor of doing the horizontal polka.”

“Maybe…maybe not.” Harry loved this; he actually had Ron on edge for once.

“So, come on, spill it. What’s she like?”

“Don’t even think about it, Weasley. I’m not telling you anything! Hermione’s my big secret, and
that’s the way it stays!”

“Ah, so she is good,” Ron laughed evilly.

“Let me put it this way. Your wildest imagination doesn’t even come close to reality so don’t
try to use it.” That left the young Weasley gawking at his best friend.

“You’re cruel, Potter, that was low.”

“Oh, come on, don’t start with me. I know for a fact that you’re not a virgin so don’t start
sulking.”

“Yeah, but I’ve never been in a relationship as perfect as yours and Hermione’s is.”

“Ron, you’ll find your girl, and when you do, it’ll be incredible. I promise you that. Who
knows…maybe it’ll be you and Lavender.”

“I actually hope you’re right, Harry. I love being with her. She’s fun; she makes me laugh; and
she’s incredibly sweet. And damn, can she kiss!” Harry started laughing, and Ron joined in.

“We better finish up, or we’ll miss the train!”

To emphasize how short on time they were, Hedwig arrived at the window, and Harry quickly put
her into her cage.

“Bloody hell, I didn’t realize how late it was!” Ron groaned as he threw his stuff into his
trunk. “We gotta hurry.”

Despite Ron’s hysterical behavior, he and Harry made to the Hogwarts Express with time to spare.
Hagrid was there to say goodbye, and they both shook his hand saying that they’ll see him in a few
months.

The two found Hermione waiting for them on board, and she crossed her arms when they joined her
in the cabin.

“And where have you two been? Honestly, the least you could do is be on time.”

Harry sat down next to her and slid his arms around her. Hermione melted under the warm gaze of
his green eyes, and he advanced on her.

“I’m sorry, sweetheart, but I overslept. You wore me out last night,” he teased.

“Harry!” she gasped and blushed, noting that Ron was looking at them quite intently.

“Care to elaborate, my friend.” Harry turned towards him, and Hermione turned ghostly white.

“I told you, Ron, I don’t love and tell.” He turned back to his girlfriend. “Do I,
Hermione?”

“No, you don’t,” she sighed and nuzzled his neck. Just then, Lavender popped her head into the
compartment.

“Well…I see you two got comfortable,” she teased, indicating Hermione wrapped in Harry’s
arms.

“Man, I’m glad to see you,” Ron sighed as she sat down next to him.

“Are you now?” she cooed and smiled warmly. “Did you miss me?”

“Hell yes, with those two around, I feel like I’m living in a mushy romance novel.”

“Oh really, and that’s why we spend half our time together snogging?”

“Lavender!” Ron gawked at her boldness, and Harry and Hermione started laughing.

“What? So what if they know? I don’t care.” She snuggled against him, and Ron blushed but put
his arm around her shoulders.

The train lurched, and they slowly began moving.

The two couples dropped the topics of their ‘personal’ lives and talked about their times at
Hogwarts and what they’d be doing over the summer. Harry had kept Hermione in his lap, and Ron kept
Lavender in his embrace. They didn’t mind acting like this with their friends, considering that
they both knew how serious their relationships actually were.

The trip to London never flew by so fast, and the four of them exited their compartment. They
stepped down onto Platform 9 ¾ and headed for the barrier. Wheeling their belongings ahead of them,
they each went one at a time through the entryway and emerged into King’s Cross Station.

“Well guys, I guess I’ll see you in few months,” Harry said sadly.

“Hey, it ain’t that long!” Ron laughed as he hugged his best friend goodbye. Hermione hugged him
goodbye as well.

“Ron…” Lavender sighed as tears appeared in her eyes, “…I’m gonna miss you, sweetie.” He took
her in his arms.

“I’ll miss you too, beautiful.” He planted a soft kiss on her lips and squeezed her tightly.

Reluctantly withdrawing from his arms, Lavender smiled at him one last time.

“Send me an owl, okay?”

“Count on it!” Ron answered as she headed off to find her parents. He then turned to his two
best friends.

“Well, I see my mom heading up this way so I better go. See ya in few months!” He headed up the
corridor where Mrs. Weasley was waiting for him.

Now, it was just Harry and Hermione. She stepped into his arms and held on tight.

“Hopefully, I’ll see you in a few days.”

“That’ll be too long,” she pouted.

“I know, but we’ll make it.” Bending down, he kissed her long and deep. Hermione didn’t want to
let him go, but she knew that she had to.

“I love you,” she whispered into his ear.

“And I love you,” he whispered into hers.

Stepping back from him, Hermione gave him one last peck on the lips and smiled lovingly at
him.

“My parents and I will come get you in a few days, okay?”

“I’ll be waiting. Trust me.”

“Bye for now.” Their fingers slowly separated, and Hermione gathered her things together. Giving
him one last smile, she headed down the platform to find her parents.

Although Harry was sad to see her go, he knew that it was only temporary. Hedwig screeched in
her cage, breaking Harry out of his reverie. Taking a deep breath, he pushed his trolley ahead,
keeping an eye out for his Uncle Vernon.

Author’s Notes: And so the adventure ends. The characters in this story are the exclusive
property of J.K. Rollin. Make sure that you watch for the sequel called ‘Meet The Parents’.



