Disclaimer: All Harry Potter characters and story affiliations mentioned in this fan fiction all belong to JK Rowling and legal associations. I own nothing of it nor am I profiting from it now and planning too in the future in any way. The only exception of profit is to my self for literary improvement.
Author to Reader Note:
I just wanted to quickly say sorry about the delay again. I've been in the process of switching jobs and this new one, now that the transition is complete, has opened up loads of time for me. Hence no more two month waiting periods. I want to apologize to my beta readers as well. Its not that I wanted to leave you out of the loop I was just really anxious to get something posted but you will get part 2 very soon. I'm aiming for part 2 by the end of the weekend or early next week it all depends on my time. So this hasn't been beta read. Sorry ahead of time.
I believe I mentioned it before that I don't know the exact layout of Hogwarts but who does. So if it seems like people are just popping up or arriving from directions that don't sound right then please give me be the benefit of ignorance. My impression of Hogwarts is that its like a maze in some respects with corridors leading in all kinds of directions with stairs here and there. Plus secret ways as mentioned in the books about tapestries and moving rooms. So again I ask you to bear with me if I'm starting to make it sound like people are coming from everywhere.
I was asked in an email about why I've brought Hermione's parents into this. The answer is that I don't think her parents are completely clueless to her adventured at Hogwarts but I would think they would have an opinion about it. Plus in the last four and now five books, I' think we've seen a lot of Ron and of course Harry but I felt there was a lot lacking on Hermione's part. I'm not questioning JK but Hermione's possible past was one of the reasons I was inspired to write this story. After all, hasn't anyone else wondered what makes Hermione the way she is? I first started thinking about it after I watched the first movie with my cousins a while ago and one of them remarked the line in which Ron says "it's no wonder she doesn't have any friends."
Another thing on Dobby, my impression of him is that he refers to him-self in the third person and is not able to pronounce all words the same way as humans do. So if his speech seems childish or there are misspellings in his speech like names or places. That was intentional based upon my understanding of his character.
Revised 4/09/04
Harry Potter and the Turmoil Within
Chapter 29
Man or Monster
Part 1
One by one they descended stairs, gathering in the corridor. The statue scrapped its way back into place, guarding the entrance to Dumbledore's office. As the statue came to rest, an owl swooped into view from a window nearby, screeching loudly and glided to McGonagall. It hovered for a moment and dropped a small piece of parchment from its talons into McGonagall's hands before flapping away. With a quick read, she let off a discouraged sigh and made an announcement.
"It seems that Poppy, "spoke McGonagall, "Has Harry ready to leave."
Ron and Hermione both were ready to break into a run at the news but resisted enough to walk, though somewhat more hurriedly, with everyone else.
Through corridors of still tapestries and quiet suits of armor, down stairs past empty paintings and dull windows, door after door of empty classrooms. Mrs. Weasley and McGonagall exchanged whispers but Hermione and Ron didn't speak a word to each other throughout the return. They hurried as best as possible but paused a few times as Rela seem to be tiring very quickly and she would need to her catch her breath.
Ginny stayed right by her side while giving Ron a curious look as he did nothing to assist her but glance their way. Even with her own mind set on Harry, Hermione did note that it seemed strange that Rela wasn't bothered by Ron's ill-manners of not trying to help her.
Descending the final stairs to a corridor that would lead them to the hospital wing, an unexpected and seriously un-welcomed nuisance arrived. High pitched cackle of laughter reached their ears and shouts from paintings along with rattling suits of armor, signaled Peeves approach.
"Of all times, "snapped Professor McGonagall irritably, "He has to do something now."
As if acting on some insane cue, Peeves the pestering poltergeist came out from behind a suit of armor with a big smile and a beady look awaiting the intended pranks as it held a small bag with something that rustled within. He gave them a look of pure devious delight and reached in, his beady eyedlook almost drunken with joy. McGonagall drew her wand but before she tried to deter the ghostly menace, another resolved the situation first.
A deep voice boomed in the distance with, "Peeves!"
At once Peeves lost his smile and stopped instantly in the air as the Baron came floating in behind him.
"Not today," boomed the ghost of the Baron, his tone distinct with finality, his look very serious, "Go back to taunting the imps."
Peeves had a look of wanting to argue but the Baron's look halted the poltergeist. Peeves flew off into the ceiling, dropping his bag and letting some small purple things scatter away, muttering a few things that were no doubt not meant for civil conversation. It was the first time since Professor Lupin that Hermione could ever remember anyone putting Peeves in his place so easily, as not even McGonagall could get him to behave.
"Sorry Professor, "apologized the Baron n his deep voice, "He can't resist a chance to pull something when the castle's this empty."
McGonagall nodded her head and the Baron floated off through a wall behind him.
"Come along," quietly directed Mrs. Weasley to them, "It's late, lets get Harry and go home."
A minute later, they rounded the corner of the corridor of the hospital wing as Pomfrey opened the doors to meet them. Dobby strode out with her and met them with a smile.
"Miss Granger," spoke Pomfrey, directing her-self towards Hermione, "I believe this is your wand."
Madam Pomfrey reached into an apron pocket and withdrew a familiar looking wand. One Hermione had not seen since earlier that day but where did she had gotten it was the question.
"How did you find it," asked Hermione surprised, "I thought I wouldn't see it again since it was taken."
"Maylen found it," answered Pomfrey slightly curt, "Apparently, it was in Mr. Potter's robes."
Confused at first, taking it into her hands, Hermione remembered suddenly that Harry had returned Ron and Rela's wands then turned to her but that moment had been interrupted by Erickson unexpected arrival.
-That must have been the wand I saw, - thought Hermione, -The one in his robes before he gave me back my badge.-
"Well I assume you got the owl," said Pomfrey plainly, halting Hermione's thoughts," So I tell you about Mr. Potter's current condition."
Ron and Hermione exchanged a nervous glance. Ginny stood by Rela as the girl's sudden fatigue was making it difficult to stand. Mrs. Weasley took a slight step forward as Minerva stood by silently.
"Well," started Pomfrey but paused at a faint sound drawing her attention.
The light tapping of steps reached their ears and they turned to see. In the shadows of the corner from which the corridor intersecting the next, two pairs of eyes looked back to them. One pair very distinctly bright and silver but the other was much dimmer and had a touch of blue.
"As Dumbledore mentioned earlier, the injuries are not severe, "started Pomfrey clearing her throat and explaining, "Unlike the 'numerous' times before… everything was only minor… a broken rib which protruded through his side otherwise there are still some minor fractures here and there … but they're small and not a danger… otherwise all that's left is a lot of heavy bruising and cuts."
"But Harry had blood all over him," inquired Mrs. Weasley, "Is he going to okay from that?"
"Actually," corrected Pomfrey and adding in hesitation, "He lost very little… most of it… wasn't his."
"Then," began Mrs. Weasley but she was interrupted.
"The dark wizards," laughed Daken from his darken corner, guessing the question.
"Harry's… reaction," spoke McGonagall quietly and pausing before finishing with" Must have been… severe."
"Voldemort was never one to be subtle," added Daken, "Nor kind with his magic… so that shouldn't be too unexpected with Potter."
"Harry is not Voldemort," snapped Ron viciously!
"No one is saying he is," replied Mrs. Weasley rather curt with her gaze directed to the shadows.
"In any case," cut in Pomfrey, focusing the conversation back to her, "The only blood loss was from the rib bone puncturing his side… and from his scar."
Hermione could feel many of her muscles relax, not even realizing just how tense she was. She must not have been the only to begin feeling better as Pomfrey spoke again even more serious.
"Don't get too relaxed about it… that was only the good news," spoke Pomfrey with serious caution, "Now for the bad."
Pomfrey let gaze go astray for a moment as it seemed she was collecting her-self.
"The serious concern that remains is that Mr. Potter's is severely exhausted," spoke Pomfrey, her tone lost its plainness and sounded a bit grimmer, "It's serious due to the fact that… whatever has caused Mr. Potter to become… this way… has made him resistant to my potions… probably any potions."
"Resistant to potions?" questioned McGonagall then whispered almost desperately, "All of them?"
Pomfrey nodded her head, then looking to the rest and explained, "Normally when a witch or wizard is injured and will be unconscious for a few days there are potions you can apply to keep the body strong… but not for Mr. Potter… his sudden… uniqueness… has caused that option to be no longer viable."
Pomfrey paused letting what she said have a moment to take its place in their minds. As that silence came it was broken by more footsteps, hard and fast, as Snape appeared and stood next to McGonagall. He carried a small case as his cold, hard look was indifferent to the situation.
McGonagall looked to Snape but before she could utter a word, stated, "I already know… none of them work… the Headmaster requested that I prepare a few things for Molly."
He held out the case which Mrs. Weasley took with a questioned look but rather than inquire she looked back to Pomfrey.
"Then what," asked Mrs. Weasley clear with expectation, "There has to be something else?
Pomfrey took a breath with her gazed slightly towards Snape and answered, "We have a couple of options... but only one of them is probable…which is just to let him wake up on his own … no doubt he'll be asleep for a few days at the very least but that's not good in his current state."
"And," inquired McGonagall, slightly frustrated, "What else?"
"Well there's the Maldibure honey, " replied Pomfrey, "But I don't have any and Sprout hasn't been able to get a single bud."
McGonagall gave strange, quick glance towards Hermione and Ron but looked to Snape and asked, "Severus, do you have any?"
Snape gave her a dismissive look and answered, "You know the law… if I did I'd have to turn it."
McGonagall's eyes turned to a glare followed with a look of doubt.
"Let me remind you that it takes months to grow just one flower for the sap," snorted Snape and then added rudely, "And I am a Potion Master not a Herbologist… I make potions not stand around for days on end to grow one plant… regardless of what it can do."
"We could sneak some out from St. Mungo's supply," growled Daken's voice from his corner with Draco, "That area is well guarded… but there are ways around it given the right… person."
"Don't bother considering it," cut in Pomfrey loudly before McGonagall could respond, "I've already inquired… they used the last of it already… their placing an article in the Daily Prophet, doubling the reward for every once that can be found."
"Is that it then, "asked Hermione, "Noting else?"
Rather than answer, Pomfrey just gave a look of expectation to McGonagall but received a doubtful look and a shaking of the professor's head in return.
"They're not that young," remarked Snape with a sudden smirk, "We could at least try?"
McGonagall gave a decisive and threatening glare at his comment. Snape said nothing to it but he gave Ron and Hermione a devious smile.
"Not even Albus would suggest it," replied McGonagall curtly, "We've no proof as of yet."
"Have we forgotten what happened with Krum," chided Snape, obviously enjoying his suggestion, "He didn't have scratch on him… happened once, it could happen again."
"Enough Severus, "snapped McGonagall dangerously, "That's interfering… we can't… Albus already pointed that out to us… and you had better not consider it another second."
"It would be, "mocked Snape smirking, showing his joy of the moment, "Interesting."
"Serverus," speaking McGonagall in a warning nature.
"Someday you'll need to make a decision," snapped Snape nastily, turning and walking away, adding, "And won't have the Headmaster to hold your hand… I suggest you prepare for that."
Snape began to walk past Daken and Draco but as he did Daken whispered to him.
"And I suggest that you don't alienate your allies," whispered Daken in the shadows, "Or you'll have no one in your corner when your fight comes."
"You know nothing," whispered Snape, pausing in stride and not looking to his side, "And things like you should keep their opinions in the shadows… just as you hide there."
"I may hide in the shadows," replied Daken, "But I still strike… not cower in a dungeon and let others do the fighting… that's what got you in this mess didn't it?"
Snape said nothing more but snorted as he took up his pace again back to an unspoken place. After Snape turned the corner, Draco and Daken went in the opposite direction.
None of those at the hospital wing heard the exchange and so continued their conversation unaware.
"Isn't there anything else," asked Hermione, "I mean there's always something?"
"Well Miss Granger," inquired Pomfrey, "Do you have an alternative?"
"Well," began Hermione, pausing as she thought, remembering what she could on the spot from all the books read, class notes and actual experience, "There has to be something."
Hermione thought of different potions, many which would a long while to make and with ingredients not so readily available. Thought back to chapters read of the numerous books of various subjects but with Harry's condition many were too string to use in such a state.
Hermione heard a groan and turned to see Rela begin to lose her balance again. She watched as Ginny steadied her again and Ron moved closer.
Hermione heard as Ron whispered, "Are you okay?"
Seeing as Rela gave him a weak smile and slight nod, answering, "Yeah… I'm just getting really tired again."
Hermione was about to answer that she knew no alternative to the awaiting Pomfrey when upon turning to her, Hermione glanced quickly again at Ron. She noticed a scorch marks along the fabric on his back. For some reason, seeing that flashed her mind back to when they entered Hogwarts earlier in the day and what had welcomed them.
- Fawkes, - thought Hermione puzzle, - A phoenix... -
That's when she remembered the basilisk, when she had been revived from the petrification. Ron and Harry had retold the events of the Chamber to her later. Harry had told her of Fawkes and the venom that had entered through his arm.
"Fawkes, "whispered Hermione.
"What did you say," replied Pomfrey, bringing Hermione out of her thoughts?
"I said Fawkes," answered Hermione looking back to Pomfrey and McGonagall?
"The headmaster's phoenix," replied Pomfrey, "What about it?"
"Its tears can heal," answered Hermione, growing more confident, "Can we try that?"
"Where did you hear such a thing," asked Pomfrey, her voice strong in the hint of disbelief?
"Harry told me," replied Hermione, "After I was revive from petrification… he said Fawkes' tears hit his arm where the basilisk's fang bit and sealed the wound."
"That's right… I saw it… I was there," added Ginny excitedly, "In that place… with the big snake… Harry had a big hole in his arm… but Fawkes swooped down and I saw its tears hit Harry… then it all just sort of glued together… like nothing had happened."
Pomfrey looked from them to McGonagall her expression clear with doubtful confusion and curiosity. McGonagall in turn only shrugged her shoulders slightly.
"Well," insisted Hermione, "What about it?"
"Its just… Miss Granger… I would," replied Pomfrey slowly but doubtfully, "Except no one's ever been able to prove whether that was true… sure there have been those who said its true… but there's never been any documented proof of such a thing about phoenixes… not surprising considering how selective they are of people.."
"But I saw it happen," snapped Ginny snappishly, "I was there."
"You also had just woken up, "replied Pomfrey, "After having been under the control of dark magic."
"Damn it," snapped Ron as well, "Harry, himself, said it happened… and he wasn't under anything's control."
"I'll ask the headmaster about it… and if the phoenix can do that," questioned Pomfrey, still with disbelief but some wavering evident, "But true or not… I would like to hold that option in reserve… and see if Mr. Potter will wake up on his own."
Ron just sighed in agreement, clearly not settled with the delay and Hermione agreed that if Harry had such sudden resilience then maybe it was best to hold off until absolutely necessary.
"Well then, I need to get Mr. Potter ready to move," spoke Pomfrey turning, "Dobby would you?"
As Pomfrey had started to turn and looked down to where Dobby had been, she the elf was gone, which was odd given its undeniable loyalty to Harry and regard his safety.
"Where did he get off to," inquire Pomfrey surprised?
"Strange," commented McGonagall, looking as well, "Molly and I shall assist."
Without another word Pomfrey turned completely away and headed back into the hospital wing with Mrs. Weasley and McGonagall in tow. In the Hospital wing, Mrs. Weasley talked with Pomfrey regarding Harry with McGonagall gathering things. Pomfrey already had Harry wrapped tightly in blankets on a levitating stretcher.
Harry's hair was still dull and flat. His skin still pale and discolored even with the blood and grime was cleaned from his face, leaving a swollen area around his scar. Harry's breathing was slow but not so labored and forced on intake. And in the end, Hermione knew something was missing from the picture that was Harry before them.
Maylen came from nurse's office with an armful of coats to distribute. Taking their coats, Maylen also handed Ginny a small brawn sack along with a mischievous smile.
"Thanks," replied Ginny blushing slightly.
"What's in there," inquired Ron, sliding on his coat?
"Oh um," began Ginny, still blushing but Maylen answered for her.
"It's a girl thing," answered Maylen and Ron just nodded his head, dropping the matter.
Rela was sliding on her coat again but began to wobble again. Ginny snatched her up again. Ron looked as if he was about to move but a sudden hesitation stopped him.
Maylen moved forward and placed one hand on Rela's chest just below her neck. Then kneeling, Maylen gently placed her hands on Rela's face and spread her drooping eyelids to look into Rela's eyes. After a moment, Maylen smiled at her and straightened her clothing. As Maylen began to stand, she paused long enough to lean forward and whispering something in Rela's ear.
With final preparations for Harry's transport, the others finished adorning though coats and gathering bags that were awaiting on a nearby bed.
"I wonder what Professor Snape was talking about," questioned Hermione suddenly?
"When," inquired Ron, piling bags together?
"Before he left," replied Hermione, looking at what bag had what, "He said we weren't that young… and something about Krum."
Ron shrugged his shoulders, answering, "Don't know… probably something unpleasant knowing that git."
"Maybe," remarked Hermione.
Ron then had a question of his own.
"Do you know what flower they were on about," questioned Ron?
Hermione furrowed her brow into quick thought.
"Maybe," whispered Hermione, "the Maldibure Flower?"
"The what," replied Ron?
"Professor Sprout mentioned it before when we did the chapters on healing herbs for potions and the like," answered Hermione
"Didn't the nurse say that stuff wouldn't work, "asked Ron, "Potions and all."
"Yeah but," responded Hermione thinking, "Its an ingredient in a potion but you can you can use it by it-self."
Before Hermione could continue, the sound of heavy footsteps reached their ears. Looking towards the door, they watched as a group of wizards walked in led by one they had not expected to see.
"What are you doing here," inquired McGonagall surprised?
"Why… my duty of course," replied the leading wizard quite smug.
Lucius Malfoy, baring his cane, looking quite pleased about something walked into the Hospital wing. Three others followed with him, their demeanors none to pleasant other than the quiet pleasure of their task ahead.
Ron moved and stood in path between Lucius Malfoy and the others.
"Stand aside," snarled one of Malfoy's companions, pushing Ron aside.
However his attempt was unsuccessful as Ron remained firm. The wizard made to push but it was an ill attempt again just as if trying to move a large boulder with a gentle nudge was useless.
McGonagall hurried to Ron's side and stated, quite distastefully, "What duty."
"My duty as governor of Hogwarts," replied Lucius in an oddly casual and cool manner, adding, "And also as a citizen in the service of the Ministry."
Lucius Malfoy handed McGonagall a folded parchment, a look of achievement adorned his face as McGonagall read through it quickly, her face whitening.
Stunned, McGonagall stated, "You can't be serious?"
"What," inquired Pomfrey quickly?
Pomfrey approached and McGonagall handed the parchment to her.
"Everything is in order as you can see," replied Lucius Malfoy coolly, "By order of the Ministry, Harry Potter is to be taken to St. Mungo's… placed under guard… then answer to an inquiry regarding his… dark behavior."
"Why you monstrous," snapped Pomfrey seething but Lucius cut her off.
"Careful madam," cut in Lucius, his attitude showing his clear enjoyment, "We have young ones here… wouldn't want to set a bad example?"
McGonagall's cheek started to twitch slightly and following a look from Lucius, the other three moved to side step Ron and seize Harry's stretcher.
In a flash, wands were drawn Ron had is aimed and the three following Malfoy brought forth their own. McGonagall and Pomfrey followed together and even Mrs. Weasley began to draw. Ginny joined her mother, leaving Rela in Maylen's care. Hermione went for hers as well, moving closer to Ron. Soon, with wands all around, spells at the edge of lips, Lucius Malfoy stood in a center, unarmed. Some wands were aimed towards him while others were aimed elsewhere.
"It so… interesting… when things become," spoke Lucius, still oddly cool, seemingly unfazed, looking around and finishing with, "Chaotic."
Lucius looked past Ron, Hermione and the rest to a person behind them.
"Maylen… it's been some time… still as lovely as ever," spoke Lucius lightly, oddly un-phased by current position, inquiring, "Will you be joining in this… melee… of opinions?"
Maylen said nothing but gave a look before turning and walking away to the nurse's office.
As tense as things were, it was amazing that no exchanges occurred as a loud sound of the clearing of a throat drew their attentions. Another wizard stood at the entrance. There stood somebody they had seen earlier that very day but also had not expected to see, at least not so soon. Lucius turned to look as well and smiled wi th devious delight.
"Ah Belmus," spoke Lucius with pleasure, "Finally another person with some sense."
Belmus Minet, Rela's father, stood at the Hospital Wing's doors. A few folder parchments in one hand and a hard look of displeasure at the scene added to his starch posture.
"Is this a bad time," stated Mr. Minet, not in question but more of subtle and final request, "I was under the impression that the situation had been… settled."
"Oh it has." replied Lucius, looking to his companions, then glancing back, "But there's always those… minor details… that get involved."
"I'll show you something minor," snapped Ron.
"Quiet you," retorted Mr. Minet, glancing at Ron, walking forward, "This matter is not of discussion for you."
Lucius looked so pleased that it was making Hermione sick to her stomach. Seeing the look on McGonagall's face gave her the impression she wasn't the only one feeling that way.
As Mr. Minet approached, he eyed Lucius companions, asking "What is your business here, Mr. Malfoy that would require Aurors? I've never heard of a governor needing an armed escort upon the grounds of the very school in which they govern."
"That is true… it's an unavoidable detail that I feel is most over address in these situations," answered Malfoy with a sighing sincerity so false even Ron seemed to turn green in his cheeks as Malfoy finished with, "But I don't make the rules… only follow them."
"And what situation would that be," inquired Belmus, now standing before Malfoy, "That you would be handling?"
Instead of answering, Lucius simply reached into his robes and withdrew another parchment, handing it to Mr. Minet. Rela made her way to Ron, clinging heavily to his arm as she looked to her father in fearful puzzlement.
As Mr. Minet read on, Lucius added, "As you can see… its all in order… I'm only following the orders given by our wondrous Ministry."
"Don't you ever stop," snapped Rela, breathing hard, "You haven't stopped lying… since you've stepped in here!"
Lucius turned towards Rela, a smile on his face but a look of clear disgust.
"You have your mother's beauty," replied Malfoy lightly but hinting a threat, "But I would hope you have your father's intelligence to know when not to speak… Miss Minet."
Before Malfoy could turn back, they saw it. Ron, Hermione and more saw it as the parchment, Mr. Minet was reading lowered just enough for his eyes to protrude over the top. In that moment, he gave Malfoy a piercing and malicious glare they had only seen when Dumbledore mentioned name Macnair. From his gaze, there was little to doubt that a nasty expression was following from behind the parchment. Malfoy turned his attention back to Mr. Minet but not before the parchment rose back up, blocking Mr. Minet's face to Lucius Malfoy.
"Well just about everything seems in order," spoke Mr. Minet, folding the parchment and with a professional demeanor handed it back to Lucius.
Lucius gave a most pleasured smile while most everyone else could only stare.
"Thank you Belmus," replied Lucius, turning to his companions, "Now gather him up… we're leaving."
Mr. Minet cleared his throat loudly which drew Malfoy's attention back to him.
"I said… just about… everything seems in order," spoke Mr. Minet with a strange tone then asked plainly, "There is still the matter of the guardian."
Lucius raised a brow to him and replied in question, "Guardian?"
"Ordinance Thirty Two of the Underage Magical Persons code," answered Mr. Minet, "Clearly states that should the Ministry require taking into custody any underage magical persons, than said persons must be accompanied by designated guardian or have guardian's written confirmation of required custody."
"Is that all," replied Lucius chuckling and then looked to the others in the group, asking, "Very well then… Molly?"
Mrs. Weasley looked at Lucius Malfoy with a face not describable with civil words of her disgust. Mr. Minet, however, spoke before her.
"Mr. and Mrs. Weasley are not Mr. Potter's guardian," countered Mr. Minet.
Lucius Malfoy gave a short but clear grunt of frustration and replied, "If you're referring to the Muggles… I can assure you that they won't be very cooperative… but I shall see to their contact."
"But the Dursleys," began Ron in protest but Mr. Minet also cut him off.
"Yes I am aware of the Muggles… a Mr. and Mrs. Dursley… as well as their… dislike… for the magical kind," spoke Mr. Minet while giving Lucius a dismissive look and stated, "But they are also not his designated guardians."
"Well then who is," snapped Lucius Malfoy slightly curt," And I'll be quite happy to fetch that person?"
Mr. Minet withdrew a parchment from his side pocket and gave it a look over.
"According to the wishes set down by James and Lilly Potter," answered Mr. Minet, "The designated guardian is a one… Black… Sirius Black… you will need to have this person present or written confirmation before taking Mr. Potter into custody."
Hermione wasn't sure but it looked as though Lucius Malfoy was dumbfounded at Mr. Minet's explanation of the guardian. Mr. Minet on the other hand looked as though he had answered a simple question without any significance.
"I know you've been living in Germany for some time," spoke Lucius with a chuckle that gave no sense towards humor, "So you may not realize that Sirius Black is a wanted criminal of the highest caliber… so it's not likely to be possible for there to any contact with him… let alone for him to be present."
"Then your order from the Ministry is invalid," replied Mr. Minet simply, "And suspended until you can fulfill Ordinance Thirty Two."
It was easy to hear the leather of Lucius Malfoy's glove as it tightened around his snake headed cane.
"Harry Potter is a dangerous wizard," stated Lucius Malfoy, his once cool edge melting away in his voice, "And thus needs to be escorted to more secure environment… that way we can complete an inquiry."
Mr. Minet looked at him plainly, crossed his arms and still with no change in his voice, replied, "If you have no guardian… then you won't be escorting Mr. Potter anywhere."
Lucius Malfoy took a deep and long breath with a quick twitch to his eye.
"Belmus, lets not quarrel over details, "spoke Lucius, his coolness returning as stepped forward, placing a hand on Mr. Minet's shoulder, "I'm sure we can get it all sorted out."
Mr. Minet glance at Lucius's leathered bound hand gripping his shoulder and looked back with his eyes squinted. In a move that even surprised the tiring Rela, Mr. Minet broke the crossing over his arms as Mr. Minet smack Lucius Malfoy's arm away, breaking the hold on his shoulder.
"Our relationship is purely professional," snapped Mr. Minet, his tone suddenly dark and dangerous, "You will call me Mr. Minet… is that clear Mr. Malfoy?"
A scowl spread on Lucius's face as the implied insult was not missed. The other wizards with him began to eye Mr. Minet.
"I'm happy to walk you to the Hospital wing," came an aged and welcomed voice from the hall beyond the doors of the hospital wing, "Though I do not believe it has been that long since your time here."
Mr. Minet didn't make any attempt to look but a satisfied smirk grew on his face. Lucius looked on with curiously but also with growing contempt at the sight he saw. Dumbledore stepped through the doorway and looked at everyone with a surprised look.
"You're right about one thing," snapped Mr. Minet, glaring at Lucius, "There will be an inquiry… but not on Mr. Potter's more than questionable behavior."
As Dumbledore stepped through the doorway, he was not alone as Alan Derricks stepped in with him while four other Aurors who had sour looks for Lucius's companions stood further behind in the background. Derricks looked very pleased with him-self leaving Dumbledore at the door with the Aurors, crossing the Wing and joining Mr. Minet's side. Lucius looked from one to the other and though his said nothing at first his demeanor suggested that his once cool attitude was fading rapidly, even gripping his cane tighter. Alan handed Mr. Minet some more parchments and he gave then a glance over.
"It's curious…you're a governor… but your duties only extend to the area of education," stated Mr. Minet quietly but decisively, "Yet you cosigned for the Apparition charm…which prevented and seriously delayed any Auror arrival during the attack."
"Where did you get those," snapped Lucius, dropping his cool completely?
"It takes two signatures for an order like this to go through… and in a village… such a request is only allowed on specified buildings," spoke Alan, ignoring Lucius's question, "There's yours here and… the mayor's… who oddly enough is the one who's daughter was held captive."
The stretching of gloves and the groan of wood could be heard as Lucius gripped his cane tighter.
"I was just being helpful," replied Lucius, is voice evident of forced control, "After all Harry Potter was there… we just wanted to keep him safe."
Mr. Minet gave a clearly false look of puzzlement to Alan and asked, "How did you know he was going to be there? A charm like this takes over a week to put in place… plus there's the odd fact that according to the restrictions you delivered your-self… Mr. Potter would not be leaving Hogwarts for the holiday… so how did you know he was going to be at the Weasley household?"
Lucius stared at Mr. Minet darkly and brought his cane up so his other gloved hand could grip it as well. Lucius's companions did nothing but just watch in despise.
"While you're considering that," interjected Derricks calmly, "What about the Dementors? Your signature also is cosigned with the mayor for Dementors to be present. But over twenty were requested? Why would anyone need so many? Not to mention the fact that Azkaban regulations state that no more than ten can be summoned and only if a danger is evidently present."
Lucius just glared at their practically nonchalant faces, gripping his cane so hard that the wood cracked, nearly snapping it in two.
"Well it seems our business here is done," stated Lucius darkly, "As you said… we have no guardian… good day then."
Lucius began to storm away followed by his companions. However just as he started to pass, Mr. Minet brought up his hand and stopped him.
"Three days… three o' clock," stated Mr. Minet harshly, "You had better have some real answers by then since its your inquiry… you'll receiving an owl on the specifics by morning."
"I doubt that," snarled Lucius quietly, "What make you think you've got anything beside a few coincidences?"
Mr. Minet smiled as if challenged to an enjoyable game.
"Oh I have many things… such as your testimony fourteen years ago that said you never met my wife," replied Mr. Minet and then changing his tone to something of a dangerous nature as he added, "So how did you know Rela is my daughter or that she looks like her mother? Governors are not privileged to the personal lineage of students so long as its not a danger to others… Whasperors are not dangerous…so how did you know that about my daughter?"
Lucius just seem to growl rather than answer and Mr. Minet slid his blocking hand away and finished with, "Three days at three o' clock."
Lucius whispered loudly, "You should reconsider how you do things… you might be seen as a nuisance."
Mr. Minet just smiled again, which was odd considering his authoritive nature, while Lucius stormed away.
"Baxter, Donaldson and Webber," snapped Derricks as Lucius companions began to follow him, "I also expect some explanations by the day after as to why you were so quick to help a governor with no ability to enact an order of such a degree… and you will leave with your… colleagues… back to the ministry."
None of them said anything but continued on, past the other Aurors that surrounded them. Mr. Minet had a surprisingly satisfied look to him.
"Looks like you're having an enjoyable holiday," inquired Derricks, humor evident?
"I didn't get exactly what I wanted," replied Mr. Minet looking to him, "But I think the substitute might be just as good."
"Its been too long Belmus," stated Derricks kindly, extending his hand, "I thought I might never see you again after you left for Germany."
"I had another concerns to address, "replied Mr. Minet, taking the extended hand, "Before I could satisfy my intentions with Macnair."
"As sick as it sounds, he's right," said Derricks, his voice suddenly more human, "Rela does look like her mother… but she's got her grandmother's hair I believe."
Mr. Minet chuckled and Hermione almost dropped her wand in surprise to see such a change in his demeanor.
"Still able to notice those odd details in situations," replied Mr. Minet chuckling, "I thought you'd take you forever to get through the academy… and now you lead the Aurors."
"The loyal ones anyways," replied Derricks happily, "But you… head of the law department."
The situation had changed so fast that no one was able to fully take in what was happening in front of them as even Ron still had his wand drawn and aimed.
"A drink at my place then," announced Mr. Minet, inviting what appeared to be an age old friend?
"If you're buying," replied Derricks.
They broke their handshake and Mr. Minet took a few steps forward approaching his daughter.
"I'm okay," stated Rela before her father said anything, "I just need to sleep a while."
'I'll see you soon then," replied Mr. Minet, taking a moment to kiss his daughter's forehead, "Have a good time."
Before turning back to leave, he gave Ron a hard look. Then turned and joined by Derricks, started to head out from the Hospital Wing. Dumbledore walked up to Mr. Minet, reaching into a pocket and handed him an unmarked envelop before they exited. Mr. Minet opened it in curiosity and gave Dumbledore a surprised look after viewing its contents.
"Is this," question Mr. Minet, peering at Dumbledore, "What I think it is?"
Dumbledore gave him a warm smile and answered, "I was going to ask you then… but given the events that occurred… I did not want you to rush into anything without a clear head."
Mr. Minet closed the envelop back up and began to pocket it within his robes.
"With dark times approaching again," continued Dumbledore more serious, "I now ask you formally."
Mr. Minet reached out with his open hand and Dumbledore took hold of it with slight hesitation.
Shaking hands, smirking, Mr. Minet replied in dark humor, "If his kind thinks I'm a nuisance now, then they haven't seen anything yet."
Without an explanation, Mr. Minet walked away with Derricks, leaving others unclear to their exchange but Dumbledore stood smiling happily, watching Mr. Minet through his half moon spectacles.
They walked out of the hospital wing, leaving the confused students and professors alike.
"I don't mean anything bad towards the Weasleys," inquired Derricks, "But do you really want to leave Rela with them considering everything?"
Mr. Minet stopped walking and Derricks paused by his side, awaiting a response.
"Normally no," replied Mr. Minet quietly, "After I lost her mother… I swore that nothing would keep me from protecting her… but."
Derricks said nothing and still awaited Mr. Minet.
"But I've seen that boy's eyes," continued Mr. Minet, "And they're not to different than the ones I saw in the mirror years ago … you should have seen him stand against Mr. Malfoy… not a drop of fear."
"How about his posture," added Derricks," Only one person could have taught him that."
"Yes Moody," answered Mr. Minet quietly, "It would seem that he sees something in the Weasley boy worth refining… he had him in the training room… the advanced one."
"Really and not even out of Hogwarts," inquired Derricks humorously "But you still… don't like him?"
"I suppose its some natural instinct," replied Mr. Minet, humor evident in his voice as well, "After all Lauren's father didn't like me very much either."
They walked off, unaware of the closing of a cracked door a distance away.
In the time that followed, Hermione found her-self standing at the landing with McGonagall, watching as Harry was put into a carriage. Mrs. Weasley and the younger witches climbed in. However, Ron climbed up into the driver's seat, even though there was no horse, drawing his wand and giving a glance to her back before it took off.
"Well Miss Granger, "spoke McGonagall, stating more than asking, "Shall we be off?"
Hermione zipped up her coat just as another carriage came rolling into view. She followed McGonagall into it and rode quietly as it traveled to the gates. Hermione thought back to the news Dumbledore announced as he crossed the Hospital Wing when Mr. Minet and Derricks left. How he said her parents had been informed and we're requesting her home. How Mrs. Weasley promised that everything would be okay and shushing Ginny who began to protest. Ron did little but mutter an apology and a see you later together in a response. Rela was barely coherent and focused what remained of her fading strength to make it from the hospital wing to the carriage.
"It really was brave of you," spoke McGonagall breaking the silence and Hermione's train of thoughts, "To face Harry without a wand."
Hermione didn't say anything in response but stared out the carriage window at an endless landscape of trees and hills covered in snow.
"I don't often say how proud I am of a student, " continued McGonagall, "I don't want others to feel discouraged because of another's achievements."
At this Hermione did look to McGonagall, puzzled at what she was leading to but also surprised to see her speak so casually.
"If I could I'd award all of you as many points as those counters could hold," continued McGonagall again, "You each have had to grow up much too soon and not be the children or young adults you should be… and still have a connection so strong… that… I am so proud of."
"Its worth it," replied Hermione quietly, "Better than my life was before."
McGonagall stared more intently Hermione and asked, "What was it like before coming to Hogwarts?"
Hermione smiled a bit and answered, "I wasn't that popular."
McGonagall raised a brow and answered a moment later with, "I see."
The carriage came to a halt outside of a building in Hogsmeade and they stepped out. The door opened and a plump little witch greeted them in her night gown with a sleepy smile.
"Oh Minerva right on time," greeted the witch, "Please come in from the dreadful cold and I'll get the package."
Hermione began to step into the house as the carriage began to roll away but as it did something large growled nearby.
"What was that," inquired Hermione, beginning to reach into her coat?
"We didn't come here alone," answered McGonagall hardly noticing the odd sounds, pushing Hermione into the house, "We were escorted… and lets leave it at that."
A faint sound of thuds reached Hermione's ears as the carriage faded away in the dim light of the street lamps.
Hermione glanced out of the window with a slight morbid curiosity to know what could make such sounds but stay hidden in the journey. The plump witch handed McGonagall a wrapped package. Which when opened was revealed to be a lantern. Hermione could only guess at it but McGonagall spoke before hand.
"One way Port keys are easy and allowable," stated McGonagall, "However special Port keys that can go two ways and still let the object perform its basic function… are strictly regulated by the Ministry… and monitored closely."
Hermione came closer to look at the lantern more closely. As she looked at it, Hermione had to wonder why they came to Hogsmeade for it and not use it at Hogwarts.
"Shall we be off?" asked McGonagall, "I believe your parents are… anxious to have you home."
Hermione stepped even closer and took hold of the lantern with her professor. A moment of darkness came and the familiar pulling sensation around her midsection followed. When Hermione opened her eyes, she found her-self on a familiar lane of houses she knew and one she knew all too well. McGonagall placed a hand on Hermione shoulder and looked back at the young witch with a thin smile.
All to soon Hermione found her-elf at the small walk way to the front door of her Muggle home. McGonagall was merely a few steps behind as they went up the walk way to the door. Hermione also found how expectant her parents were as she reached to knock, the door swung open and Hermione was wrapped in a tight embrace.
"Thank heavens, you're alright," whispered Hermione's mother into her ear, relieved.
For a moment, her mother held her their before pulling Hermione inside and allowing McGonagall to step in as well.
"Hermione, "spoke Jean her tone changing when McGonagall stepped in, "Go to your room… I'll be up later…I want to speak with your head of house."
Hermione crossed the room, her father giving an encouraging nod as she went into the hallway leading to the stairs. Hermione ascended the stairs to her bedroom as McGonagall stayed with her parents in the living room. Hermione barely made it into her room before hearing the shouting. Rather than go back, Hermione entered her bedroom knowing why her mother was shouting.
As if sensing the troubles to come, Crookshanks laid quietly on the corner of her bed, watching Hermione's every move and welcoming her home with a slight purr.
"Hello, "greeted Hermione weakly.
With the door closed, her mother's shouts and her father's attempts to calm her were dulled. Hermione stood at the door, her back against it, surprised that though she could hear her parents, there didn't seem to be anything from McGonagall. Walking away from the door, Hermione dropped her bag on the floor by the foot of the bed and continued on to her desk. Crookshanks continued to follow her every move.
Pulling the chair out, Hermione slumped down, surprisingly tired again. She could still hear her mother's muffled shouts from down stairs. She started to pull off her robes when Crookshanks jumped into her lap and muscled his way against her.
Hermione began to scratch away at his ears and neck while stroking the underside of his chin. The very combination he always likes. After a moment, Crookshanks ignored her attentions and started to poke his head and paw at the side of her robe.
"What are you doing," inquired Hermione puzzled, lifting her hands to let Crookshanks move more freely.
The cat shoved its flat pug head into her pocket and dug slightly into her legs as he pulled back. With another quick tug, Crookshanks brought his head up, jumped up onto her desk and shook to straighten his orange fur. At first Hermione was just going to laugh the whole thing off until she saw the item dangled in Crookshanks' mouth.
There Crookshanks sat with a small sack dangling freely from his mouth. The same Dumbledore had given her to send Ron, Rela and her-self to Harry.
Hermione reached for it and Crookshanks left go without a fuss. Odd considering it has string and Crookshanks, like any cat, always like to play with string. Crookshanks hopped off the desk and trotted off.
Feeling the sack and the bits inside, Hermione's curiosity peeked again and she opened to dump its contents onto the desk surface. Sliding and dropping from the sack came bits of rounded glass and crushed metal.
Picking up the metal, she felt a sting in her hands like a shock. It took only a moment to realized what she was looking at. A pair of glasses which hours ago had been crushed by the hands of the owner as his rage surged from his eyes and sought to obliterate the on set of his anger.
Hermione realized she held and was looking at the remnants of Harry Potter's glasses.
- But when did Dumbledore get them, - question Hermione?
But for whatever reason Hermione discarded the thought and set to work ignoring the rules of underage magic.
However much time went by, Hermione didn't know. When the shouting had stopped or dulled, she didn't know. All that she knew was what lay before. Getting the metal untangled, shaping them right while putting pieces of glass together until after many repair spells, a pair of thin black rimmed glass lay before her, restored and ready to be worn.
Satisfied and delighted, Hermione set her wand down to stared at a pair of perfectly restore glasses. All that remain was for them to adorn the face she wanted to see.
She quickly found a large parchment to wrap the glasses in and a piece of string to tie to an owl's leg. If she couldn't put them on her-self then she would see to it they got to where they belonged.
With Harry's glasses safely wrapped, Hermione dared to creek open her door and listen to what was down stairs. At first she didn't hear any thing and so risked going further out. After a few steps, she found that the light was out. Figuring her parents had retired for the night, Hermione crept down stairs to the kitchen to place her parcel on the owl stoop. When the owl came to deliver the Daily Prophet she would be able to pay it to take Harry's glasses to the Burrow. Only she found she would have to wait her turn in the kitchen as that her parents were already there.
Hermione stepped to the side of the kitchen door and listened to her parents' conversation.
"Well that's just that," snapped Jean, "She's not going back."
Hermione felt her whole body freeze, realizing she just arrived at a conversation already in progress and not sounding to favorable to her.
"Alright I'll call the realtor in the morning," replied Lionel.
Hermione felt sure that her heart had stopped.
"Realtor? What good will that do?" snapped Jean, "They can find us with their magic?"
Hermione's mind raced with ideas to find some reason to dissuade them.
"We'll need to move closer to a library," replied Lionel calmly with an odd tone like mocking.
"What does that have to do with anything," snapped Jean again, "I'm trying to be serious here or have you forgotten what happened to our daughter?"
"I am being serious, "shouted Lionel suddenly in return, "I'm serious about what we're going to condemn Hermione to…or have you forgotten what her life was like before that school?"
"I'll have you know," began Jean, furiously, before Lionel cut her off!
"No, "snapped Lionel fiercely, "You've been shouting enough and you've had your say… now it's my turn… your not fond of the boy… you're afraid she's going to get hurt or worse… well here's something for you… I don't want that boy within a stone's throw of her… I don't want her to go back… and I don't want her to have anything to do with any of this anymore… but we can't decide just on what we want either!"
Hermione lost all thought and dared to peek around the door edge. Her mother was sitting at the table, clearly tired and her father was leaning against the sink, looking no better. Her mother was just staring at her father with confusion and maybe surprise for his voice being raised to her.
"Look," continued Lionel, a taking a breath and calming, "Tell me she hasn't been happy these few years… tell me that you're not glad she sending… sending those owl things out to real friends… tell me you don't feel… feel something when she here on the holidays going on about her adventures and the fun she's had… tell me that the five or six page letters we get every few days about what she's learned from doing whatever is better than the one page about grades and what not."
Still peering around the edge, Hermione watched her mother's face contort into disapproving agreement. Her father left the sink and came to crouch by his wife's side taking hold of her hand.
"I know you haven't forgotten," spoke Lionel in a sad voice, "Day after day… she would just read books or help us to do things or spend hours on her homework… the other children didn't take to her… her teachers couldn't do anything and nothing we did made it better… no playing in the park… no sports… no clubs… no sleepovers… nothing, not even an invite to a birthday party or a welcomed play date."
Hermione's memories came flooding back, not to mention her eyes slightly, while her father brought back the terrible reminders.
"No she wasn't happy," replied Jean in a defeated tone, "Not like she is now… even after all that I could tell she expected us to let her go right back."
"You mother was right when she first said it that night… what fourteen years ago," spoke Lionel quietly, "She said Hermione would be different and she said it every day after that until passing on."
"So we only have a one choice we can make then," quietly replied Jean?
Lionel just nodded and his wife turned to him.
"Either we keep her safe but unhappy," spoke Jean, a light break in her voice, "Or we let her be happy but… not safe."
A moment of silence seemed to pass and Hermione wasn't sure if she was breathing at the time.
"I'm not so sure that her safety is really such an issue," said Lionel in a strange tone, "This is what the sixth time now? That boy… Harry… he's put him-self first before them… that stone… then the snake thing… and that contest with the lake… then this year's been that metal ball and Krum… now this… each time when our daughter… when any of them are put into danger… he takes the brunt of it first… I'm tending to think he'll die before they will."
Hermione pulled away from the edge of the door and backed up against the wall. She was sure she could feel her heart now as it beat even harder. Hermione had to admit to her-self that he was right; every time the worst of it seem to come Harry went it alone. He wouldn't let her help him face Voldemort for the stone. He took on the basilisk alone without Ron even with Fawkes coming later; he still had taken the monster on alone. Harry challenged Sirius him-self and even risked the tournament for their safety in the lake. Harry had taken the Bludger's full force in the Quidditch game and pushed her away to take Krum's knife to the gullet. In the village when things were at their worst, Harry sent them away from the battle but stayed behind, to stop and maybe even hunt down the dark wizards and witches. As her father said, Harry was and always seemed to put him-self into the worst of it before they did it.
"Hermione probably hasn't eaten anything since this morning," spoke Lionel, his words stopping Hermione's thoughts, "Why don't you take her something and I'll make some more coffee."
Hearing her father's suggestion and the scrape of a chair, Hermione made a mad dash, as quietly as she could, back across the living room to the stairs and up into her room. She didn't know how much time was given, so she changed as quickly as possible, pulling off her blouse and skirt to stuff them into the closet while pulling on a night dress. She had just gotten her-self into bed nearly a minute before a knock came to the door and her mother entered.
"Hermione," whispered Jean, "Are you still awake?"
Hermione sat up and tried as best as possible to look surprised as her mother turned on the lights upon entering.
"Here," spoke Jean offering a plate of cucumber sandwich squares and glass of juice.
Hermione picked a square and began to nibble away at it slowly as her mother set next to her. For a while, her mother said nothing as Hermione finished the squares followed with sips of the juice.
"I suppose," spoke Jean placidly, "You'll want to see Harry as soon as possible."
Hermione didn't know how to answer, so she just chewed more slowly, looking away.
"I see," continued Jean, "Just answer this… is he… is Harry worth it all?"
Hermione looked up to her mother to see a pair of tired but determined eyes looking back. Remembering what her father had mentioned and thinking of all the times Harry had been there for them, every time he had smiled in her direction and risked everything for everyone but it was one more thing that made the answer obvious. Hermione climbed out of bed, leaving the plate and her mother behind as she went to the robes hanging neatly at the desk chair. Hermione reached into a pocket, pulling something out. Hermione walked around the bed to stand before her mother. Jean seemed slightly confused but she watched her daughter open her hand and reveal a badly damaged badge worn by Prefects at Hogwarts.
"There's a lot of things he could have done… in that room," answered Hermione, "But all he did was give me back this… again."
Jean looked back at her daughter.
"Yes," finished Hermione, "He is… it all is."
Jean took a deep breath and looked at her daughter's hopeful eyes. With that she pulled Hermione into her arms for another tight hug.
"Alright," replied Jean into Hermione's ear with a sigh, "Get into bed and have a good night's sleep. Then we'll pack your things, have our own little Christmas and get you back to the Weasleys."
Hermione stood stunned in her mother's arms, unsure of what to say. Jean said nothing more than a good night, took the empty dishes and left with a kiss to her daughter's head. Hermione climbed back into bed as her mother turned out the light. Hermione closed her eyes and for once hoped morning would come much sooner.
With the door closed Jean leaned against it, both tired and defeated. She looked up to see Lionel coming up the stairs. Lionel just smiled at her as stepped onto the landing.
"We're taking her to the Weasley's in the morning," stated Jean.
Lionel said nothing but took the plate and juice glass from his wife, placing them upon a small table nearby. Jean leaned against him as they walked on to their bedroom to finally retire and awaken early.
Next Chapter:
Man or Monster
Part 2