Unofficial Portkey Archive

Title: Harry Potter and The Panacea - Chapter 03
Author name: Falcon
Author email: falcun_21@yahoo.com
Category: Schnoogle
Sub Category: Action/Adventure, Romance, Humor
Keywords: H/Hr
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Two years have gone by since the end of Harry's final year. Voldemort is dead. Harry has withdrawn from the wizarding society after defeating Voldemort and graduation from Hogwarts, but still keeps in contact with Ron & Hermione through owl post and occasional visits. Ron is a Chudley Cannon. Hermione has been working at Hogwarts since their final year with all the Professors. Sirius has been acquitted of all charges against him and is the Transfiguration Professor. Professor McGonagall is the new Headmistress replacing an ill Headmaster Dumbledore and Flitwick is the Deputy Headmaster. Lupin is reinstated as the DADA Professor after Moody's retirement.

Disclaimer: All characters belong to JKR, and I ain't making no money off them. This story is made up of my own original ideas, and any resemblance to anyone else's is strictly coincidental, and unintentional.

Chapter 3

It was many hours later when Harry awoke. His skull felt like it was trying to split open, and his scar gave the impression that a branding iron had been pressed to his flesh. Through the pain in his head, he could hear Hermione pleading with him to wake up. He realized that his head was resting on her lap, and that she was holding a damp cloth to his forehead.

"Harry, please come back to me!" Hermione begged.

Harry cracked his eyes open and groaned. "Hermione." He noticed that her eyes were red and puffy, and her hair was very unkempt.

"HARRY!" Hermione cried. "Are you okay?"

"Shhhh. Not so loud," Harry whispered. He sat up, and the rag fell from his head. He started to speak, but his stomach gave a sharp lurch, and he barely had time to turn his head before he vomited. He turned over onto his hands and knees, and heaved again. He bowed his head as another wave of nausea washed over him, and he purged his stomach of its remaining contents. Harry looked up at the ceiling and took deep breaths. He felt something very cool brush his forehead, and push back his sweaty hair.

"Are you alright?" Hermione asked, her hand combing softly through his hair.

"Yeah," Harry said, "the nausea's getting better."

Hermione looked at the puddle on the floor, said a cleansing charm and the mess vanished. "Here." She said, handing him the wet cloth. Harry took it and wiped his mouth.

"I was so worried!" Hermione's fear was still evident. She buried her face in his shoulder and hugged him tightly. "I thought I'd lost you."

"It's okay, I'm here and I'm not going anywhere without you." Harry closed his eyes and held her tight.

"I tried everything I could think of to wake you up, but nothing worked. I wanted to owl Sirius, but that meant leaving you, and I didn't want to do that."

"I'm okay," Harry said. A fresh wave of pain chose that moment to rocket through his skull and he clutched his head in both hands, as if to keep it from coming apart. "I think," he groaned. The pain seemed to grow stronger the more he moved his eyes around, and he closed them and pressed the first two fingers of his hand to his forehead to alleviate the pain.

"Harry? Are you really alright?"

"I don't know." He used his other hand to rub his eyes. "My head is killing me, and my eyes feel like they're on fire." Harry squinted at Hermione. "You're also getting fuzzy."

"Harry! Your EYES!" Hermione said, very shaken.

"What-what's wrong with them?" Harry asked, a hint of fear in his voice.

Hermione drew back from him, and put up a hand, as if to ward off something, and scrambled backwards. "They're glowing bright green!"

Harry closed his eyes again. "Oh. That's happened before." He breathed a sigh of relief. "I was beginning to worry for a second."

"No Harry! When you use your powers, only the middle of your eyes glow but right now your ENTIRE eye is glowing!" Hermione sounded like she was on the verge of panic.

"That is new." Harry said, more calmly than he actually felt. He was just as scared as Hermione, but knew that if he started losing it, then she would be gone for sure. "Try to keep it together Honey. You're no use if you're all wonky."

Hermione took several deep breaths, exhaling very slowly. "I think I'm alright now Harry."

"Good." Harry opened his eyes. "How are they now?"

"Much better, they're back to normal. Do they feel any different?"

Harry squinted. "Oh bollocks! I'm blind again."

"WHAT!"

"Relax, I'm not completely blind. I just need my glasses." Harry waved his hand, and his glasses appeared out of nowhere. He slipped them on and looked around. "Ahhhh," he sighed, "everything seems to be going back to normal."

"Harry James Potter! Don't scare me like that," Hermione admonished sharply.

"Sorry," Harry said, a trifle sheepishly. "I didn't mean to." He stood up, then reached down and pulled Hermione to her feet. "Have you examined it?"

"Yes, and to tell the truth, I'm stumped. I have no idea how it could have happened."

"I'll know in a minute." Harry said grimly, turning to take a long look at the dining room wall. It was very faded, resembling old paint, but he could just make out the word that had been very vivid the night before.

Potter!

Harry looked at it from various angles. At first glance it had appeared to be painted on, but upon further inspection, he saw that it was in fact etched into the wall. The main bar of the "P" ended in a lightning bolt, and Harry frowned. He placed his hand about an inch from the wall's surface, and slowly moved it over the letters of his name. As he passed each one it glowed with an eerie green light and disappeared from sight. As he moved from letter to letter, his frown grew deeper and deeper. When he got to the last one, Harry felt his blood run cold, and he shivered. "Uh oh." He mumbled.

"What? What's wrong?" Hermione asked quickly.

"Trouble, BIG trouble, emphasis on the BIG."

"Out with it!" Hermione said, her exasperation beginning to show.

Harry took a deep breath, and grimaced, "Voldemort is back."

"How can you be sure?"

"This." Harry said, pointing at his no longer oozing scar. "This." He pointed to his glasses. "And this." He indicated the name on the wall.

"But I thought you said he was gone for good?" said Hermione.

"I thought he was." Harry insisted, "But it would appear that he has marked me for death yet again."
"He's found a way to come back?" she asked.

"That, or someone has found a way to bring him back," he said. "Either way, it's up to me to stop him." Harry strode for the door, an intense look on his face.

"No Harry!" Hermione hurried to catch up. "We have to alert the Order!" She said, doing her best to match his pace.

"I knew you were going to say that." Harry sighed.

Hermione got in front of him, and planted her hands on his chest, stopping him. "Harry! You know we have to alert them! If you don't do it, you know I will!"

"I know only too well." Harry growled.

"And what is THAT supposed to mean?" Hermione narrowed her eyes.

Harry winced. "Nothing, forget it." Harry pushed past her and entered his study.

Hermione latched onto his arm and spun him around just as he walked through the door. "I don't think so Mr. Potter," she said, folding her arms across her chest.

Harry raised his hands in placation. "I just meant that you always do the responsible thing even when I don't want you to. Like when I got my Firebolt."

"Oh God! I can't believe you'd compare that to this!"

"I'm not comparing them, I was just mentioning another time when you took matters into your own hands when I refused to do the smart thing."

"Oh, so you admit that I did the right thing back then?"

"Honey, I got over that a long, long time ago. You were half right, and if I had been thinking straight, I would have seen that."

"Harry, it really hurt that you were mad at me, when all I was doing was trying to keep you safe." Hermione said softly.

"I know, and I've kicked my ass numerous times over the years for how much I took you for granted or under-appreciated you."

"You did?"

"Yes. I was blind. It never occurred to me just how much I needed you-need you." Harry amended quietly.

"D-d-do you really mean that?" Hermione's lower lip started trembling, and she stuttered slightly.

"Every word. I just wish I'd said them long ago," said Harry, stepping closer and taking her hands.

Hermione averted her eyes. "Y-y-you d-d-don't know how much that means to me," she said, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.

"Yes, I do."

"I-I-it's okay Harry. There were a lot of things claiming the majority of your attention back then."

Harry shook his head. "No, there is no excuse for it," he insisted. "You were there for me through thick and thicker and I barely, if ever acknowledged that. I was so…"

"Harry…" Hermione pressed her finger to his lips to quiet him. "It's alright. I forgave you for being thickheaded a long, long time ago." She laughed softy. "It's really quite funny actually. You're so observant, but you completely miss what is right in front of you. It's always been your biggest character flaw."

Harry tried to speak, but her finger against his lips bade him to remain silent.

"But that didn't matter to me then, and it matters less now. I love you Harry. This last little episode of yours drove that fact home very hard. I thought I'd lost you, and I didn't know how I was going to cope with that."

Harry reached up and gently took her hand away from his mouth. "You love me?" He asked, the awe in his voice apparent. Hermione nodded, and his heart gave a leap. No one had ever professed to love him, not to his face anyway. There was a new sensation burning in his chest, and he realized that Hermione wasn't the only one in love. "I-I-love you too," he said, not taking his eyes off her. Before he knew it, he had gotten lost in Hermione's smoldering eyes. Unable to stop himself, he raised a hand and caressed her cheek, drawing her face closer to his. Their gazes remained locked, and they both moved closer. He saw Hermione's eyes close just before his own, and then he knew nothing except the pressure of her lips on his, the taste of her mouth, and the light, hesitant touch of her tongue. Acting instinctively, Harry brushed her lips with his own tongue, and met hers in a silent duel when she invited him in.

For Harry, time lost all meaning, and nothing existed except Hermione. Her mouth under his, her hands roaming from his hair, over his chest and down to his rear end had his full attention. He, of course, felt that she deserved to get as good as she was giving, and his hands took to exploring as well. He trailed his hands lightly over her shoulders, and down her sides just barely brushing over her breasts, causing her to gasp into his mouth. The thin material of her shirt did nothing to conceal her excitement, and feeling the hardened buds beneath his palms gave Harry pause. He broke the kiss long enough to look where his hands were. He started to move them, but Hermione's hands grabbed his, holding them pressed to her chest. She whimpered when he repeatedly rubbed over the sensitive nubs with his thumbs. Harry felt her hands move downward and rub his arousal through his jeans. It was too much for him, and he slid his hands down to her behind, cupping the smooth flesh through her skirt. He squeezed tightly, pulling her to him. They stumbled, and Harry felt his back strike the doorjamb. Using it to catch his balance, he pushed Hermione up against the opposite side. He nuzzled her ear, nibbling the lobe, before trailing kisses down the side of her neck. Hermione moaned, grabbed his head and held it tight to her throat. He felt her clawing his shirt free from his pants, and then her cool hands on his chest, squeezing his pectorals, and trailing up and down his abs.

"I've wanted to feel your muscles ever since I saw you in the shower." Hermione breathed.

Harry raised his hands to her breasts again, and looked into her eyes. He saw encouragement, so he started fumbling with the buttons of her shirt. He spread the cloth, revealing her breasts encased in a satin bra, colored a delicate pale pink with the clasp in front. The bra did little to conceal, the light color and soft material meant that she might as well be nude, a condition that Harry fully agreed with. He quickly worked out how to release the locking mechanism, and very slowly, almost reverently caressed the soft mounds.

Harry gently rolled Hermione's nipples between his fingers, and she gasped and shuddered. He took a moment to examine her breasts, and he was in awe. They were very pert, and large enough that his hands couldn't contain them completely. "So perfect," he mumbled. He crushed her lips with his again, sliding his hands under her skirt, and this time he went under her panties as well. He caressed the tight muscles of her cheeks and ground himself into her. He felt Hermione fumbling with his belt, and before he knew it her hand was wrapped around him, squeezing softly. Harry's eyes crossed, and the world exploded around him.

Everything seemed to happen in slow motion. Harry yanked Hermione's hand out of his pants, and spun quickly, looking for the threat. He saw glass, books and wooden shards flying all over the room. He thrust Hermione behind him to shield her from the flying debris and conjured a field to deflect shrapnel.

After the roar of the explosion had died down, and Harry had deduced that there wasn't another attack forth coming, he turned to his companion. What he saw caused him to smile, but the look on her face killed his mirth. Hermione's face was flushed, her hair was a mess, her bra was bunched up under her shirt that was buttoned wrong, and only partially tucked in, but her wand was out and she was ready for battle.

"What the bloody hell just happened?" Hermione's lips moved, but no sound seemed to come out.

Harry shrugged, closed his pants and gave her a once over. "I was about to ask if you were alright, but my question has already been answered," he shouted over the ringing in his ears. Hermione smiled, showing that she understood even if she couldn't hear him. He had understood what Hermione said, even though he couldn't hear her, almost as if her voice was in his head. He smiled at her use of profanity; her proper grammar always seemed to be the first thing that disappeared when she was upset.

Harry was assessing the damages, and looking for the cause of the explosion when he was attacked by a very perturbed Snowy Owl. Hedwig didn't look like she was hurt, but judging by her attitude, and the look on her face, Harry was very glad that he couldn't hear at the moment. The big owl was obviously screeching at the top of her lungs, and every time she flew by him, she swatted him with a wing. Harry ducked repeated flybys, and decided that the examination of the room could wait until his pet had calmed down enough to allow them to look around without beating them to death. He grabbed Hermione's hand, and tugged her down the hall. He thought that if they left the room, Hedwig would eventually wear herself out. He thought wrong. The Snowy Owl shot out of the study, and flew straight at them, attacking with wings and talons. Harry threw up his arms to shield his head as well as grab the disgruntled bird, but Hedwig was having none of it. She pursued them all the way to the den, then perched on the chandelier and continued to voice her annoyance.

Harry indicated the couch, and Hermione sat down. He dropped down beside her, and took her hand. They avoided the others' eyes, and just stared at their clasped hands. Harry wanted to say something about what had almost happened, but knew with their hearing on the blink it was useless. He gently raised Hermione's face until their eyes met. He looked deep; searching for affirmation that what had nearly happened hadn't been a mistake. What he saw made his heart swell, and he couldn't stop himself from smiling. His feelings were mirrored in her eyes, and they both breathed a sigh of relief. Harry settled back on the couch, and wrapped his arms around her. Hermione laid her head on his shoulder, and they just sat there, content.

Harry was unsure of how much time passed while they sat on the couch in companionable silence and only realized that his hearing had returned when Hedwig landed on the arm of the couch opened her beak a few inches from his ear and let out a shrill screech. Harry cried out and jammed his fingers in his ears inadvertently striking the bird with his elbow. Hedwig took this as a personal affront, and took to the air, screaming her fury, and startling Hermione who clapped her hands over her ears and gave the raptor a look that promised death.

"Aaaahhhh! Hedwig! SHUT UP!" Harry roared.

Hedwig landed back on the chandelier, gave Harry a look that screamed injured pride, and squawked at him before turning her back on him. Unfortunately, she continued her raucous screeching. Harry's head was starting to hurt from all the noise, and he yelled at the bird again. He was unprepared for the look of disdain Hedwig turned on him before squawking again and showing him her back. Harry had dealt with a lot of things, but Hedwig was worse than any Basilisk, Dementor or anything Voldemort had thrown at him. "Hedwig! SHUT UP NOW!" Harry had pulled his fingers from his ears, and was standing under the chandelier screaming at his pet.

Hedwig fluffed her tail feathers at Harry, and he raised a finger in warning. "Don't you even think about it," he threatened.

The big owl fluffed her feathers again, gave him another look then turned her beak up at him. That would have been fine with Harry, but when he turned back to Hermione, Hedwig launched into another vociferous assault on their auditory senses. Harry spun around, his eyes blazing. "Hedwig! I swear to God if you don't shut up right now, I'm going to have fried owl for dinner!" He raised his hand, his fingertip glowing with power, but a soft voice stopped him.

"Harry, calm down. I'll take care of this." Hermione said. Harry turned around to see Hermione grinning and raising her wand. "Quietus!" she cried, and immediately Hedwig's shrieking ceased.

"Thank you," Harry said, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"You're welcome." Hermione said brightly. She frowned suddenly. "Harry, you weren't really going to fry Hedwig were you?"

Harry laughed. "Not at all. You saw how worried she was right? I have to threaten her at least once a day, just so she knows she's still important."

"That's odd behavior for an owl isn't it?"

"Not for Hedwig. I learned a long time ago that she has an attitude and a personality all her own."

Hermione giggled. "Poor Harry. She has you wrapped around her little talon hasn't she?"

Harry chuckled. "Yeah, I'm whipped," his grin turned wicked, "of course, now that I have you, she's got competition."

Hermione blushed. "Don't get me started again Harry," she warned, "if you do, I don't think I'll be able to stop no matter what blows up, and that would really hinder calling the Alicorn."

Harry cleared his throat. "Right. I'll behave if you will," he stuck out his hand. "Want to shake, or should we kiss on it?"

"Shaking is so impersonal," Hermione said. "We're practically lovers, we should kiss, but I don't think that's a good idea considering what our last kiss led to."

"Awww, c'mon. Just a quick one?" Harry said, giving her his most innocent look.

Hermione frowned, "I really don't think we should Harry."

"Yeah, you're probably right. Pinky swear?"

"Pinky swear," Hermione said, smiling.

Harry stuck out his smallest finger, and curled it around Hermione's. "I swear to behave, and do my best to control my urges towards you," he said.

"Me too." Hermione grinned.

"That was a total cop out, and you know it." Harry scolded.

Hermione gave him her brightest smile. "I know." She turned and walked away.

Harry's mind was a complete blank. He wasn't sure when Hermione had gained the ability to turn his brain to mush with a smile, and was mildly amused when he realized that he liked it. He was still musing, when he realized that Hermione was no longer in the room.

"Hey, where'd you go?" Harry said, leaving the room. He started to go look for Hermione, but decided that he really should investigate his study and see what had exploded. He entered the room, and was aghast at the mess. Glass littered the floor, and protruded from the walls. He stepped over numerous books, picked up the luxury eagle feather quill given him by Hermione for Christmas their second year at Hogwarts, and placed it on his desk.

Harry couldn't sense any Dark Magic in the room, so he looked for the remains of any Muggle explosive devices. He canvassed the entire room and found nothing. Opening his awareness, he expanded his senses outward, searching for anything out of place. That too was a bust, and Harry was left with the conclusion that he had caused the explosion during his and Hermione's almost romp. He shook his head in irritation, and grabbed a handful of owl treats for Hedwig. He set them on his desk, and whistled for the owl. He looked around at the room and shook his head again in disgust. He snapped his fingers, and the room was instantly repaired.

Harry decided that even though they had agreed to behave, he and Hermione really needed to talk about what had happened, and much as he didn't want to do it, he knew they were going to have to come to some kind of terms.

Harry left the study, and headed for his room to change clothes. He heard movement in the bathroom, and quietly opened to door to see Hermione already changed for bed, and brushing her teeth. He folded his arms and leaned against the doorjamb, watching her every movement. She was wearing a nightgown instead of the shorts and t-shirt combo of the previous night, and Harry found her choice very appealing. It was light blue and thigh length. He was also very surprised, and very pleased to note that under the gown, she wore nothing at all. Hermione bent over to rinse her mouth, and her gown rode up, almost exposing the lower portion of her bottom, and causing Harry's breath to quicken. She grabbed a robe that had somehow skipped his attention and shrugged into it. Harry waited until the last possible second before closing the door and going about his own bedtime ablutions.

Harry was in his room when Hermione knocked on the door. "Come in," he called.

"Are you decent?" Hermione asked, before slowly opening the door a crack and peeking in.

"Decent enough." Harry said. He was wearing a pair of black boxer-briefs and was digging through his drawers for a pair of shorts to sleep in. He looked up when Hermione walked in. He noticed that she had tied her robe very securely around herself, and halfway expected her to have cast a knotting charm as well. "Hey," he said simply, going back to his task.

"Getting ready for bed?"

"Yeah, soon as I find my shorts." Harry muttered, wondering exactly when he had managed to lose his favorite pair of shorts.

"No pajama bottoms tonight?" Hermione asked, dropping down on his bed and leaning on an elbow to watch.

"Nah, too warm and binding." Harry slammed the next to last drawer shut, and opened the bottom one. "If they're not in here, then I have no clue as to where they might be."

Hermione rolled onto her stomach and kicked her feet in the air. "Can't just sleep in your underwear?"

"I guess I could, if you don't mind seeing my pale, skinny legs that is."

"I don't mind."

"Okay, don't blame me if you go blind from the glare."

"I'll chance it."

"You've been warned." Harry stood up and pushed the drawer shut with his foot. He grabbed a t-shirt off the bed and pulled it on. He sat down beside Hermione, and rested his hand on her back. "Pumpkin, we have to talk."

"Let me guess," Hermione said, sitting up and facing him. "We blew up the study."

Harry knew his confusion showed on his face. "How'd you guess?"

Hermione gave Harry an incredulous look. "I could feel the power coming off you in waves Harry. With the amount of energy you were pouring out, I'm surprised there's a room left."

"Yeah. That's really what I wanted to talk about. You got me that worked up and all I did was blow up the study, the power didn't hurt you. I was afraid that if something happened between us, then the power would affect you just like it did the room. I'm glad I was wrong." Harry ran a hand through his hair. "Speaking of that, I think it was more of how fast I got worked up rather than the intensity of the build up that caused the explosion."

"So you think that if you had gotten worked up slower then everything would have been alright?"

Harry nodded. "Yeah, you said I was pouring out a lot of energy, and you're not hurt by it, so if I get excited slowly, then we should be able to release a lot of, for lack of a better word, excess energy."

"We still can't have sex Harry." Hermione said. "Although God knows I want to." She said the last part very softly, and Harry barely caught it.

"I know, but there are alternatives."

"What?"

Harry gave Hermione a suspicious look. "Hermione, you don't know anything about sex, do you?"

Hermione's face turned bright red, and she sat bolt upright. "I know as much as you do!"

Harry grinned. "Somehow, I seriously doubt that."

"I know everything I need to, thank you very much!" Hermione was working herself into one of her patented huffs.

"Oh really?"

"Yes really!" she snapped.

"Care to test your knowledge?"

Hermione folded her arms and glared at him. "I am always ready to test my knowledge."

"Okay then. What can two people do to relieve the sexual tension in each other?"

"Just jumped right in there didn't you." Hermione flushed. "I know the basics, and there's y'know the thing with uhm…well." Her blush grew brighter and brighter. "Alright! I don't know! Okay? I have an idea, but I don't know anything for a fact."

"Hermione, you're the most well read person I've ever met, how can you not know this?"

Hermione looked down at her lap. "I don't know. It just never interested me enough. I was too busy learning what I considered useful information to worry about anything of a sexual nature."

"Right," Harry felt an attack of nerves coming on, and rushed ahead. "So, would you be interested in learning then?"

"I-I-I'm not sure," Hermione stammered.

"Are you scared?" he asked gently.

"A little," she admitted.

"Do you trust me?" Harry stared into her eyes.

"With my life." Hermione returned his gaze. "It just seems that we're moving awfully fast."

Harry nodded. "I understand completely. It's only been a couple of days since we first mentioned that we have feelings for each other, and now we're talking about sex, and its alternatives."

"Yeah. Can we slow down?" Hermione asked. "At least a little bit?"

Harry took a deep breath, and broke their eye contact. "Of course. We don't have to do anything right now, and to be honest I think we should become a little more comfortable with each other before we do take that next step. Also, it will give both of us time to get used to the idea."

"I like that better." Said Hermione. "Thanks."

Harry smiled. "No problem."

"Harry?"

"Yeah?"

"Where did you learn about sex?" Hermione's voice held the unmistakable note of a person that knows they're not going to like the answer to the question they just asked.

"Sirius. He tried to tell me everything, but that was a conversation that died very quickly. I picked up some vague things just by listening, and reading some of his magazines, and then when we were in America, we had cable. He made sure that we got ALL the channels, and encouraged me to take a look at the more adult fare while he was out. So I watched Cinemax, and quite a few adult movies and coupled with what I already knew from reading, I now have a working knowledge of what can be done. No practical experience, but a whole lot of knowledge on the subject."

"Oh." Hermione had a very thoughtful look on her face.

Harry wondered what was going on inside her head, and watched her very carefully. He didn't say anything, giving her time to think about everything. He watched her thoughtful expression change several times before settling on one that he recognized as her determined look.

"I want to learn." Hermione said simply, but her face glowed with obvious embarrassment. "Will you teach me?" Her voice was very quiet.

Harry reached out and took her hands in his. "We'll learn together," he said softly. He was about to say more, but Hermione cut him off with a soft laugh. "What's so funny?" he asked.

"Us." Hermione smiled, shaking her head.

"What about us?"

"We keep adding to our list of things to get done. One; find the book that has the spell in it. Two; deal with the Order." She said, ticking them off on her fingers. "Three; Gather the ingredients for the potion to cure Dumbledore. Four; Stop Voldemort, and Five; teach each other about sex. Quite a list wouldn't you say?"

The tender moment was effectively ended, and Harry felt the beginnings of a massive headache brewing behind his eyes. He hadn't thought of everything the way Hermione had. When tallied, they had indeed given themselves quite a set of tasks. He took off his glasses and fell back on the bed with a groan. "Damn." He felt the bed move, and Hermione laid her head on his shoulder.

"Don't worry Harry."

"I can't help it." Harry rubbed his eyes. "I never once gave a thought to how many things we have lined up. At first, all I was going to do was research the spell, and hopefully find something that would help Dumbledore. Then we find out that a couple of the ingredients for the potion are damn near impossible to get, and my scar bursts open and there's a message saying Voldemort is back, or will be back soon. And then to top everything off, there's this big thing between you and I that has to be dealt with, and sooner rather than later, because I don't think I'll be able to stand it for very long." He took a deep breath. "That's a lot to deal with, and I don't know how I'm going to manage it."

"We."

"What?"

"Not you. We." Hermione repeated. "You're not shouldering this alone Harry. I'm here for as long as you need me."

"Oh." Harry raised his head, and looked at her. "Thank you." He said, kissing the top of her head.

"You're welcome."

Harry could hear the fatigue in Hermione's voice, and it dawned on him that they had been running at full steam all day, and most of the night. He yawned, and realized that if they were going to be of any use tomorrow, then they really should get to bed. "Hermione?"

"Hmmm?" she mumbled.

"I think we should go to bed."

It was a testament to how tired Hermione was, that she didn't even react to the suggestive nature of his comment. She just nodded against his chest and curled up closer to him. "Sounds good to me."

Harry groaned. This was not going to be easy. "I meant in our own beds."

"I'm comfy here." Hermione seemed intent on snuggling as close as possible to him, and Harry wasn't sure about how to handle it.

"Hermione." Harry raised his voice slightly to get her attention. "I would love for you to sleep right here with me, but…" He blushed, "I tend to wake up in an excited state."

"You too?" she asked, yawning.

"Hermione!" Harry snapped through gritted teeth. "This is severely taxing my self control here. If I don't control my excitement, then it may become too strong to fight."

Hermione looked at him sleepily. "Huh?" Harry could see her dawning realization of what his words meant. "Oh. OH!" She sat up quickly. "I'm sorry, I wasn't thinking, of course you'd have to deal with your excitement, just as I'll have to deal with mine." She realized what she had said a moment too late, and she turned scarlet. "That is to say that uhm…What I meant to say was…" Hermione got redder and redder the more she tried to dig herself out. Harry finally took pity on her and interrupted.

"I know what you're trying to say, and it's completely natural."

"I know that Harry, but don't you think it's a bit odd for us to be talking about it?"

Harry shrugged. "Not really," he stifled a mighty yawn, and blinked rapidly. "It is a conversation for another time though. We need sleep, and now."

Hermione nodded and got off the bed. She leaned down and kissed him quickly on the lips. "Good night Harry."

"Night Hermione." Harry watched her leave the room, and grimaced. This was going to be tougher than he thought. Hermione didn't realize just how fragile his control was, and her constant innocent flirting combined with her not so innocent comments were going to get them both in trouble unless he did something about it and fast. Harry sat up and pulled his legs in to sit in the classic meditation posture. He concentrated, and an image of Hermione formed in his mind. He placed his formless hand at the apex of her thighs, and a soft green glow traced the outline of her body. The glow intensified when it located her center, then it disappeared. Harry opened his eyes and smiled. There, now she was protected. He wouldn't be able to ruin their plans by jumping the gun. He could still remove the ward, but it would take a clear head, and total control in order for that to happen, and those were two things he did not have when he was excited. Satisfied with his work, Harry pulled back the covers and slid under them. He knew the next day was going to be hectic, but he would cross that bridge when he came to it.

It was early the next morning when the sound of the shower running, and someone singing jerked Harry from a very restful sleep. He sat up very quickly, and the covers slid down his chest to bunch around his waist. He sat there for a moment listening, and trying to get up the initiative to get out of bed. He was sorely tempted to go back to sleep, and it seemed like such a good idea, that's exactly what he did. He fell backwards, asleep again before his head hit the pillow.

Harry woke again some time later. He checked the digital readout on his watch, and saw that is was past 8 A.M. He hopped out of bed, and dropped to the floor. He did 150 push-ups, then rolled over and did 150 crunches. He flipped up onto his feet, pulled on his pants and headed for the bathroom. He was surprised to discover that he wasn't excited in the least, and put it from his mind as he went about his business. When he came out ten minutes later, Hermione was waiting for him.

"Good morning!" she said brightly. "Sleep well?"

"Yeah. You?" Harry sat down on the edge of his bed and pulled on a clean pair of socks.

"Wonderful," Hermione took a deep breath. "I feel invigorated! I made breakfast if you're hungry, and I took the liberty of making you a cup of coffee. It's in the study."

"That's great. Let me grab the trunk and I'll meet you there."

"Okay!" Hermione fairly skipped from the room.

"She sure is chipper this morning." Harry stamped his feet into his boots, and went to his closet. He took a small chest down from the shelf, and carried it to his study. He set the box down on his desk, and opened it. Inside was a tray containing quills, ink, rolls of parchment, and a large number of stamps bearing the image of a phoenix. A large phoenix was emblazoned across the inside of the lid as well. Harry lifted the tray out, and looked at the items under it. A bundle of black cloth bore the red and gold phoenix symbol, and he took it out and placed it on the desk beside the tray. It was the last item that he wanted the most. A small medallion carved in the effigy of a phoenix rising from the flames. "I don't think we should call everyone."

Hermione frowned. "Are you sure?"

"Yeah, just the basics."

"You're the boss."

Harry looked at Hermione and nodded. She walked up to him and placed her hands on the medallion as well. "We two of the honored few, chosen to do battle with the darkness do call Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, Minerva McGonagall, William Weasley, and Severus Snape! By the oath that binds us and in the name of the phoenix, hear our call!" The medallion glowed bright red, and they could hear a phoenix song surrounding them. The warbling grew in intensity, and then faded away. They lowered their arms, and placed the medallion back on the desk.

"How long will it take them to get here?" Hermione asked.

"Not long. We have time to get ready, and that's about it."

"Are we doing the robe thing?" Hermione frowned.

Harry shook his head. "No. Very informal."

"Will they know that?"

"Well, since this isn't a prearranged meeting, they should realize that it's more urgent than routine."

"Okay. I was just wondering, because every meeting I've been to was the formal affair."

"That's right, I forgot that you started after I did."

"It's only thanks to you that Ron and I were allowed in anyway." Hermione groused.

Harry's eyes widened. "Is that what you think? They always intended for you to become a member, Dumbledore just thought it would be better if I asked you." He paused and considered how much to tell her. "It was Ron I had to fight for," he said quietly. "It took a lot of talking on mine and Bill's part to get Dumbledore and McGonagall to reconsider him."

"I'm not surprised." Hermione said. "Given his volatility and carelessness, he would be considered quite a risk."

"Thankfully he never gave me a reason to regret getting him in the order, and I'd prefer to drop this topic because we're going to need his help to save Dumbledore. Besides, I have to open a passage so they can Apparate in."

"Alright. I'll go prepare the tea. You do," she waved a hand as she left the room, "whatever it is you do."

Harry smiled, and placed all the items except the phoenix stamps back in the chest. He set it on the floor and pushed it under his desk. Standing up, he walked around the desk and raised his hands in front of him. His eyes blazed, and the air crackled around him. Energy surrounded his hands, and he clapped them together loudly. The magic intensified, and he slowly drew his hands apart, lightning jumping between them. Harry continued spreading his arms until they were straight out to his sides, the lightning surrounding his hands traveled down his arms and gathered at his chest. He bared his teeth in a wordless snarl, and his entire body vibrated as he strained to shape a huge amount of energy into a large glowing orb. He grabbed the incandescent ball and shoved it away from him. It expanded as it left his hands, and carved a hole through the barriers he had constructed around his dwelling. Harry's knees turned to jello, and he grabbed the desk for support. "Whoa," he breathed. His strength gone, he dropped to his knees. He heard running feet, and turned his head to see Hermione skidding into the study.

"HARRY!" Hermione rushed to him. "Are you alright? What happened?" she asked, kneeling at his side.

Harry rested his head on the desk and tried to gather his strength before speaking. "I hate that part."

"Harry, what happened? Are you hurt?"

"I'm okay," he reassured her. "Help me up." With Hermione's help, Harry rose to unsteady feet. "The chair," he said weakly.

Hermione nodded, and grabbed the chair from behind the desk. She wheeled it to him, and he collapsed into it. She pushed him back around the desk, and sat on the edge, watching him with worried eyes.

Harry picked up his coffee and took a shaky sip. He was greatly annoyed at how much he was trembling, and set the cup down before he dropped it. Hermione's hovering, though welcome, didn't help. Harry closed his eyes and took several deep breaths. "Harry, tell me what happened!" she demanded.

Harry hated how drained and irritable he felt when he had to use a large amount of his power. "Hermione, I'm fine!" he snapped. He saw the hurt in Hermione's eyes, and was instantly sorry. He grabbed her hand before she could run away, and pulled her down onto his lap. "I'm sorry." He said quickly. "I didn't mean it."

"Harry, what happened?"

Harry leaned his head back and closed his eyes. "If I use too much power, it drains me."

Hermione frowned. "It drains your power?"

"No. The power drains my stamina and physical strength to replenish itself. I've learned that the better the shape I'm in, the quicker it replenishes, and the easier it is on me." He opened his eyes and looked at her. "But, if I use more than I should…" he trailed off.

Hermione's eyes grew wide. "Harry! You could die if you use too much couldn't you?"

"Yes."

"Can you sense when you're using too much?"

"Sort of. If I have to strain a lot to control it, then I can pretty much assume that it's going to be a rough recovery."

"You said that the better the shape you're in, the easier it is on you, right?" Hermione had a gleam in her eye.

"The more physical strength, stamina, and endurance there is for it to draw from, the quicker it replenishes, and it doesn't drain me as much. Why?"

Hermione caressed his chest. "That just means we'll have to get you in better shape." She squeezed his pectoral muscles. "Now I know where these came from."

"Huh? Oh!" Harry blushed. "Yeah, well…uhm...Hermione, I don't think we should start that again." He waved a hand toward the center of the room. "Our guests will be arriving any moment now."

Hermione hopped off his lap. "Alright, I'll go get the tea. They should be here by then, right?"

Harry nodded. "Yeah."

"Okay, be right back." Hermione left the room.

Harry sighed. He hoped the Order would be able to take some of the load off his shoulders, he had enough to deal with without worrying about a dead man coming back to make his life Hell once again. He was musing about his laundry list of problems when the first member Apparated into the study. It was Sirius Black.

"Harry? What are you doing calling a meeting of the Order?"

"Hey Sirius. I'm only going to explain this once." Harry waved a hand, and six very comfortable chairs appeared. Three in front of his desk, one on each end, and the sixth was right beside his. "So have a seat and wait for the rest to arrive," he said, indicating the chair at the right hand side of his desk. Hermione came in bearing a tray loaded down with tea and scones. She set it down, and took the chair right beside him.

"Hello Sirius." She said.

"Hey Hermione," Sirius smiled in greeting, and sat down in the chair Harry had indicated. He leaned over and whispered conspiratorially. "I'd ask what's going on, but I'm supposed to wait for everybody else."

Hermione giggled and whispered back. "Harry told me you're engaged to Athena, congratulations! I'm so happy for you."

"Thanks." Sirius reached for a cup and poured himself some tea. "Harry told me you're going to write a revised edition of Hogwarts: A History. I always knew you would someday. Way to go!"

Harry ignored their talking, instead focusing his power inward to help regain his strength. Luckily, it didn't drain him to use it in small increments. It was only when he really charged up that it weakened him. He felt his strength return in full, and even a little more than he had before. This wasn't the first time that he had felt his strength increase after being drained, and he wasn't sure how to deal with it. But, since he felt much better he didn't dwell on it. He took a sip of his coffee and leaned back in his chair and waited. A few seconds later the second member arrived. It was Remus Lupin.

"Harry? Sirius? Hermione?" Remus had a confused look on his face. "Who called this meeting?"

"Harry." Sirius said. He patted the chair next to him. "Have a seat Moony. He won't talk until everybody gets here."

Remus sat down and grabbed a scone to munch on. " Harry, Hermione." He nodded in greeting.

Harry was happy to see that his father's old friend had happened onto much better times since the last time he had seen him. The lycanthrope's robes were brand new, and he seemed to be in very good health. "Hey Professor."

"Professor." Hermione echoed.

Remus flinched. "Guys, you don't have to call me "Professor" anymore. Remus is fine, or even Moony."

Harry and Hermione were saved from answering by the arrival of Minerva McGonagall and Bill Weasley.

"Please save any questions until everyone has arrived." Harry said. He rose to meet Professor McGonagall. "A pleasure to see you again Professor."

"Mr. Potter. Professors." McGonagall nodded, indicating Sirius, Remus, and Hermione.

"Hey Bill."

"Hiya Harry." Bill sat down next to Lupin, and McGonagall took the last seat in front of the desk. Harry was glad that his seating arrangement had worked out, with Hermione right beside him, and Sirius on her right, and Lupin next to him, and Bill between Lupin and McGonagall, that left the left hand chair for Snape. Harry knew the animosity between Snape and Black, and wasn't taking any chances. He barely had time to set back down before Snape arrived.

"Potter! By what authority do you call this meeting?"

"Sit down Severus!" Sirius ordered, and Harry groaned. Black looked like he was ready to leap across Lupin and Weasley to get to the Potions Master.

"Greetings Professor," Harry said politely, cutting a sideways glance at Black. He saw Hermione put her hand on Sirius' forearm, and whisper something. Whatever it was, the man leaned back in his chair. "Please have a seat, and we'll get started," Harry said, with a hint of steel in his voice. Snape glowered, and pulled his chair further away from the desk. Harry took a deep breath, and fought to keep his temper in check.

"First off, I want to thank you all for coming. I know this is an unscheduled meeting, and several members are absent, and I will address that in a moment." He held up his hands to signal that he wasn't finished yet. "Please save your questions until after I'm finished." Harry took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "We have a situation that warrants the Order's attention. Last night, after dinner Hermione and I were the recipients of a message. I cannot show you this message, because it was written in Mage." He paused to allow his audience to grasp the magnitude of that statement. "There have been only two Mages in recent history, Dumbledore and Voldemort. This message was from the latter. Now, before you all start saying he's dead, he can't leave a message, I want you to know that this message was a tracer. I have no idea when I picked it up, or when it was created. All I can tell you is that it activated last night, and my scar burst open. Not only that, but my eyesight has deteriorated back to like it was when Voldemort was alive." Harry took a sip of coffee and made eye contact with each of his listeners. They were all paying rapt attention like he knew they would.

"This message could not come at a worse time. I'm sure you all know that Professor Dumbledore is ill, right?" Everyone nodded, and Harry continued. "He is not sick however. He is dying, a very slow, very painful death. Hermione and I have been working on finding the cure, but the book that houses the spell disappeared six hundred years ago, and we have only a vague name to go on. However, that is our task. Your tasks are as follows. Sirius, you have friends in the animal kingdom that can keep an eye and ear out, I want you to talk to them and see what they've heard. Remus, you're the DADA at Hogwarts, it's your job to be prepared for the worst. Professor," he looked at McGonagall, "you run Hogwarts now, it's only right that you know what's going on." Harry paused again and looked at Snape and Weasley. "You two are more difficult. Professor Snape, you're the head of Slytherin House, and you still know the families that were followers of Voldemort. I leave it up to you to deal with the covert surveillance, and intelligence gathering." Snape seemed shocked, but hid it well. "Now, when I think Voldemort, I automatically think "Malfoy," but Hermione tells me that Draco has reformed. I'm sure you all aren't surprised when I say I don't believe it for a second. That's where you come in Bill."

"Me?"

"I hate to say it like this, but you're the only Weasley I trust with this assignment. Ron hasn't responded to any of my owls in months, and your mother and father don't need this worry." He paused again. He hated what he was going to say next, but the man needed to know everything. "Bill, Ginny has been dating Draco, and Hermione says that Ginny told her he proposed. I don't want you to arouse her suspicions, so be subtle. If she thinks you're investigating Draco for any reason other than a big brother's concern for his sister, she'll clam up. Also, and this is very hard for me to say, Voldemort told me right before he died that a baby would be his way back to this world. I hate to think that Malfoy may be using Ginny to create a body for Voldemort, and I know that you do too. See what you can find out. Any questions?"

Not surprising, there were many. Sirius raised his hand. "Harry, I thought you killed Voldemort for good."

Harry sighed. "I knew this would come up. Hang on." He turned to Hermione. "Would you go get the sword?"

"Sure." Hermione hopped up and left the room. She came back a few minutes later holding Excalibur. She laid the sword on the desk and took her seat.

Harry stood up and pulled the gleaming blade from its scabbard. "This is Excalibur. In my seventh year at Hogwarts, Professor Dumbledore told me that if Voldemort got his hands on this weapon he would be unstoppable. Needless to say, Hermione, Ron and I spent a lot of time in the library searching for its whereabouts. I don't know how Dumbledore knew the things he did, but when we found the clues, he transported us to where the sword was hidden. He assured me that it would destroy Voldemort for good. Unfortunately, Voldemort found a way to circumvent destruction once again. The sword's enchanted blade wiped out his physical body, and his spiritual one. But somehow, he found a way to survive on another plane of existence." Harry laid the sword down and stopped talking, because of the uproar at his words.

"Wait a minute! How can he be dead physically, dead spiritually, and still be a threat?" Sirius was of course the loudest.

"There exist another plane beyond those we know. Only Mages acquire the ability to travel the Astral plane."

"Astral plane?" Hermione frowned. "I've never read about that."

"Nor have I, and how do you know of these things Potter? You're no Mage!" Snape growled.

Harry felt his temper struggling to break free, and shut his eyes to force it back. "No Professor, I'm no Mage." He opened his eyes, and they glowed a bright iridescent green. "I'm an Arch Mage."

"Mr. Potter, that is quite impossible." McGonagall spoke up. "It takes years to learn the discipline to be an Adept, and decades to progress to Mage level magic. You are far too young to have those abilities."

"Yeah, I know. I heard all this from Hermione when I first told her. Why do you think Voldemort was after me the night my parents died Professor?" Harry pinned McGonagall with an intense look.

"He wasn't after just you Potter! He was after your entire family." Snape cut in.

"Bzzzt! Wrong!" Harry snorted. "I've had to relive that night a thousand times over, and Voldemort told my mother to get out of the way and he would let her live. He wanted ME! And why you ask? Because he knew what I was, somehow he sensed it. Just like Dumbledore knew there was something about me, why else would he allow a first year student to take on the Dark Lord? I could sense Voldemort ever since I first came to Hogwarts, and now that sense has gotten more powerful. I can tell that he isn't in the right plane. Somehow, he managed to reach the Astral plane before he died, and he's there now. Waiting for his followers to provide him with an infant body to inhabit."

"This is absurd! You can't expect us to take your word that you're an Arch Mage Potter! None of us have seen anyone more powerful than Dumbledore or Voldemort, and they were as you say, Mages." Snape sniffed.

Harry inspected his fingernails. "You don't believe me?" He looked around, and they all shook their heads, except for Hermione.

"I believe you Harry." She said.

"Big surprise there." Snape hissed.

"Okay, you asked for it." Harry spread his legs wide, and called upon the power within him. The air around him crackled with static electricity, wind blew his hair back, and his eyes blazed. A blinding green glow surrounded him, and lightning crackled at his fingertips. He slowly rose off the floor, and the lightning traveled up and down his body. He threw his arms out sideways, and the entire room shook and filled with a howling wind. He looked down at his guests to see that they had all left their seats and were huddled next to the chairs, all except Hermione. She still sat in her chair, drinking her tea, and smiling. Harry figured his demonstration was a success, and slowly stopped the wind, and lowered himself back down. The glow around him faded, and the lightning disappeared. He placed his fists on the desk and smiled. "Believe me now?"

Sirius raised his head and peeked over the desk edge. "Remind me not to make you mad."

Remus resumed his seat and grinned. "I'll second that."

Bill was practically bouncing up and down. "That was awesome!"

McGonagall tried to contain a grin. "I'm afraid I'll have to concur with Mr. Weasley."

"Quite the theatrics Potter. But you convinced me." Snape was deadpan, but his voice shook just a bit.

"Rest assured people. If Voldemort does find a way back, I will introduce him to my full power. I've been practicing something I saw on television in America, and I'm positive that if I use enough power, I'll kill his physical, spiritual, astral, and any other forms he may take." Harry slammed his fist on the desk hard enough that he heard the wood crack. "I am through playing games with this sonofabitch! Find out what's going on. Take these." He grabbed the phoenix stamps and passed them around. "You all know how they work."

"Alright Harry." Sirius shook Harry's hand, and gave Hermione a hug. "I'll let you know the moment I hear anything."

"I'll keep an eye open around school." Remus too gave a handshake and a hug.

"I'll see what I can find out from Gin, and let you know. Take care everybody." Bill refrained from the hugging, but gave handshakes.

"I shall take care of my duties Potter." Snape folded his arms, and gave everyone a look that dared them to offer to shake.

"I guess that's it then. Meeting adjourned." Harry said, and everyone except McGonagall disappeared.

"You say this book disappeared six hundred years ago Mr. Potter?"

"Yes Professor."

"Hmmm. I wonder if Nicolas Flamel had anything to do with that. He was notorious for acquiring rare books. A pity you can't ask him if it's in his collection."

"His collection?" Harry and Hermione spoke at the same time and then looked at each other. "Of course!" Hermione cried. "Nicolas Flamel would have been around back then, and would be the most likely culprit to have that book. Especially since it contained Ancient magic that may have helped him create the Sorcerer's Stone." Hermione smacked her forehead. "I can't believe I forgot about Nicolas Flamel!"

"Don't worry about it Hermione." Harry said. He looked at McGonagall. "Professor, do you know where Flamel's collection is?"

"No, but Professor Dumbledore might. He and Flamel were very close friends."

"Professor Dumbledore can't talk, can't hear, can't see, and is barely alive, how can we ask him?" Hermione said.

"I don't know Hermione, but perhaps his pensieve might be of use. Albus was mentioned in Flamel's will, and may have put something regarding that in the pensieve."

"It won't hurt to try Hermione. We've checked all the books here, and most of those at the library." Harry said, noticing the skeptical look on Hermione's face.

"Where is the pensieve Professor?" Hermione asked.

McGonagall drummed her fingers on the desk. "The last time I saw it, it was in the Headmaster's office. It should still be there, unless Albus took it with him."

"Okay, Hermione you go with the professor and get the pensieve." Harry's expression darkened. "I've got some things to do."

Hermione looked at Harry, then at McGonagall. "You go ahead without me Professor, I'll meet you at your office."

"Alright Hermione." McGonagall gave Harry a long look. "It's nice to know that you're trying to help Albus Harry. I do hope you succeed."

Hermione waited until the Headmistress was gone, then she fixed Harry with a worried eye. "What's wrong Harry?"

"Nothing. I just have to go see a man about a rat."

Hermione's eyes went wide. "Harry, you're not going to see Ron are you?"

"Yeah, I am."

"Harry no!" Hermione grabbed a hold of his arm. "You know how hot headed he is. Let him come to you."

"No. He's been avoiding me for quite some time now. I want to know why."

Hermione sighed in resignation. "I can't talk you out of this can I?"

"No. You can do me a favor though."

"What's that?"

"When you go to the Hogwarts, put the books back where they belong. It's just a simple levitation spell, and they'll become visible once they get within four feet of you."

"I'll take care of it Harry."

"Thanks." Harry leaned in and gave her a quick kiss. "I'll see you later."

"Are you bringing him back with you?"

"I don't know. I hope so, because going on a quest without him feels wrong."

"I know." Hermione said. "I just want you to be careful, remember his temper."

"Oh I will." Harry promised, striding from the room. He grabbed his cape, fastened it around his neck, and disappeared. He couldn't have explained how he knew where Ron lived, he just thought about his friend and suddenly he was there. He reappeared in a very posh apartment. Harry looked around in admiration. It seemed that Ron had decided to combine the best that money could buy of both the Muggle and Wizard worlds. A huge TV dominated one wall, while a surround sound stereo system occupied another. A large display case sat in a corner, and inside illuminated from several angles, sat Ron's Most Valuable Player award. "You've done well for yourself." Harry dropped into a large leather chair and got comfortable. He entered a state of meditation, and the time flew by. The next thing he was aware of was the door opening and closing. He opened his eyes to see his old friend taking off his cloak and hanging it up.

"Hello Ron."

To Be Continued

Author's Notes: Please read and review. I'll take any kind of constructive criticism. I really need some good constructive criticism. If you like it, tell me why & in detail. If you don't like it, tell me why & in extreme detail. I'll even take flames, IF they are constructive. Remember, the more reviews I get the faster I can get out the other chapters! = )