A/N: I want to state this now; Ron will be included in the upcoming chapters. There is now a Sextet: Harry, Hermione, Ron, Luna, Ginny and Neville. They will play an important part in my story, just you wait and see. Just give Ron some time to stew in his own emotions. He'll come around, you'll see. This chapter in fact.
I apologize for not posting sooner. My internet had been down close to a month, and the last time I tried to post was at the library and that just didn't work. This chapter is done, the next two are done. It just is a matter of when I get the time to post them. The site has been a pain too, and won't let me post all of the chapter.
Chapter Twelve:
Slipping Back into the Normal
Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear. Mark Twain
Departure to Hogwarts came faster than Harry ever expected. Summer had come and gone. The Order meeting they were supposed to have had, had been moved to the third Saturday in September, right after Hermione's birthday. Dumbledore had been told everything he needed to know, and in kind, Harry was given the same respect. Harry did however keep his thoughts to the power he knows not to himself. He still was unsure, but knew that deep down he had found it. His training had progressed further than Harry had really anticipated. He was able to control the lightning easily now, expending small bolts of it from his hands or eyes if he wanted to. He could also cast just about any spell through his katana as he could with his wand. His wandless, while still tiring, progressed to the degree that he could cast just about any fourth year, possible fifth year, equivalent spell as easily as he did with his wand.
Hermione's icy skills grew as well. She could use her powers just as well as Harry could, although her healing techniques were far more impressive, in his mind. She had progressed much further as a healer than she had originally anticipated. She also was a great masseuse using her healing powers, after the training he received from Serge, Lupin, Dumbledore, and Guile, who came occasionally, Harry was often bruised and battered, but not worse for the wear. Hermione would then give a comforting massage, on that helped him release all of the tension and relieve his aching muscles. He kept saying he was going to have to repay her at one point, but never seemed to get around to it.
They received their owls a few days after August first. Harry received a total of seven, not getting on in History of Magic or Divination. Hermione of course received a total of twelve, the most possible for her to get without taking Divination as well. Harry did receive his O in Potions, but the more he thought about it, the more he hated the idea of working as an Auror. From Tonks's schedule, it seemed like she was always on the go and barely at home. He was good at Defense, and teaching did have a certain joy to it. He began to think to himself about asking the Professor for the job following his graduation. It would be a good cover for his training, and he could help prepare the students for their future.
He had not heard much about Ron. The Weasleys did not come by after the episode with Ron, nor did he receive Ron's birthday gift. There were not many Order meetings, and he never was invited to the ones that were there. The Grangers had finally relented and let Hermione stay in Harry's room, thankfully. She kept the nightmares away, and he really did not know how he slept without her. The sense of home and security filled his body when he knew she was close by. He knew he'd have to make it permanent some how. He would, once it was the moment, once they were ready. For now, he would have to find some way to get him into her room, or her in his.
"Hope Ron's okay with us," Harry said, looking up at the ceiling of their room. Hermione lay next to him, staring up at the ceiling. Their trunks were packed with all of their new books. Hermione had fixed the mirror that Sirius had given Harry and they had found the other one in a box of things that were taken from Grimmauld before Riddle took it. She had one and he had the other. She seemed ecstatic when he gave it to her, instead of Ron. He simply told her he was giving it to his best friend beforehand, and when she received it, tears fell. She had never felt happier when she had gotten the mirror. She was his best friend; before she only thought of herself as his friend, now…
"Me too," Hermione said as she curled up next to him. "But if he doesn't accept us, then that's his problem." She smiled to herself. She still felt tingly at the idea of being his best friend.
"Mione, you're right, but he still is our friend, my first friend, and I need his support this year," he kissed her forehead lightly. They had fallen into a comfortable silence. With the summer training, they now were light-years ahead of everyone else in their studies. For Hermione that may not have seemed like a big deal, but to Harry, he was closer to being at the level he thought he needed to be to defeat Riddle. Now he just needed the rest of the Wizarding World prepared. A war was brewing, a war that he was not sure they could win.
"He'll come around, Harry, but you have to continue to strive higher," Hermione said, a hand reaching up and playing with his hair. He nodded, staring off into the ceiling. "You've come far."
"So have you," Harry said, finally looking at her. "I hear Madame Pomfrey raving about you to Dumbledore when I meet with him." He could see the blush forming on her cheeks as he continued. "You really want to become a Healer?" She nodded, sighing into his chest. "Well, I think I could use a Healer by my side. Taking care of all my scraps and cuts and such. Besides, I could use a massage every now and then."
"Well, all the more reason for me to become one," Hermione held him tighter. Her greatest fear was she was going to have to live without him. That was the reason she became a Healer, to make sure that he would never leave her side. She would be on the battlefield, helping him in every way possible.
"Harry, Hermione, better be ready," Lupin yelled up the stairs. Harry sat up, groaning slightly. He really did not want to leave the Headmaster's house. The door opened and Tonks and Lupin stepped in.
"Everything packed?" Tonks asked, coming in after Lupin. Hermione nodded as she got off the bed. "Well before we go down stairs, we want to ask you some questions. Don't worry, they're nothing bad or anything."
"What are they?" Harry said.
"Harry, I want you to be the best man at the wedding," Lupin said, picking up Tonks' hand. Harry nodded, accepting Lupin's free hand. A large smile appeared on the older man's face, as an apprehensive one appeared on Tonks's.
"And Hermione, I want you to be my maid of honor," Tonks asked hopefully. Harry looked over to see tears beginning to well up in both of the ladies' eyes. She nodded, and the two women shared an emotionally hug. He smiled at them and shared a look with Lupin. Both had to smile at the women who normally would not be caught dead acting this "girly." After a few moments, the two women disengaged and went back to their men.
"Well, thank you, both of you," Lupin said with a smile as Tonks clung to his arm. "There will be a private ceremony, just us, with Dumbledore marrying us. It'll be some time in December."
"I always wanted a winter wedding," Tonks flushed.
"I wanted a spring one," Hermione adding in her two cents in.
"You'll get it," Harry said, wrapping his arms around her.
"I'll get what?" Hermione said, surprised at Harry's statement.
"You will get your fairy tale wedding," Harry said, kissing her forehead.
"Come on, Harry, you're making me look bad," Lupin said jokingly.
"Don't worry, all I want is a small ceremony," Tonks said kissing Lupin passionately.
"Minors, we have minors here," Harry said, mockingly shielding his eyes as Hermione covered her mouth, trying to suppress a giggle.
"Get over it," Tonks said as she pulled back. "If you're going to live with us, then you'll have to get used to it."
"I'm going to live with you?" Harry asked. A small shock of joy ran through his system at the thought of living in a loving home before he solidified his with Hermione.
"There you go Nymphadora," Lupin said, laughing. "You ruined the surprise." Tonks blushed as he kissed her cheek. Turning back to Harry, Lupin just smiled. "I bought a small unplottable cottage out near Godric's Hollow. It's not much; three bedroom, three bathrooms, a living room, kitchen, cellar and such, but I thought it would be a good place for a newly wed couple to live, and for my godson to live as well."
"For the time being perhaps, but I think we'll be neighbors eventually though," Harry said, a large smile coming across his face. He looked over at Hermione, whose face was covered in a deep blush.
"As long as there is not a small army of children ruining our lawn, that won't be a problem," Tonks said, causing Hermione to blush even more. "Well, we better get a move on. Don't want to be late, now do we?" Lupin levitated their trunks, allowing Harry to take hold of them and Hermione walked by his side. "We're Portkeying to the King's Cross, then will apparate out after you two are on the train." Harry nodded as the two adults led them down the stairs.
"Everything set?" Dumbledore said, looking at them both. They nodded as Dumbledore's smile widened. "Good, but before we leave, there is something I wish to talk to you about, Harry."
"What is that sir?" Harry asked. His mind began to run over everything that could possible go wrong.
"Although we have a DADA teacher this year, his methods of teaching along with the subjects are rather iffy for the sixth and seventh years." There was a pause before Dumbledore continued. "I am asking you to continue on the DA club with Hermione," Dumbledore said with a twinkle in his eye. Hermione nearly squealed as she realized what it meant. The professor wanted them to teach the students, to help prepare the students for the upcoming war.
"We accept," Hermione said before Harry could get a word in.
"I'm glad to hear," Dumbledore said, maintaining the smile. "I will ask for a list of those in the club as well as a lesson plan." Hermione nodded enthusiastically. "Good, good, good. Now off with you or you will miss your train."
"Thank you sir, you won't regret this," Hermione said, holding onto Harry's arm rather tightly. He still was trying to comprehend the fact that Dumbledore had asked them to teach. "This is amazing Harry."
"Hermione," Harry said in a soft tone as they met up with Lupin and Tonks.
"I mean we'll probably have access to a great deal more spells and hexes and curses," Hermione rambled on.
"Hermione, before you explode, let me ask you a question." Hermione stopped talking as Harry stared at her. "Did you ask me what I thought on the situation?" She looked crestfallen at it.
"I'm sorry, Harry, I just thought that-" Harry cut her off with a smile and kissed on the cheek.
"You thought for both of us, but from now only let's discuss something before you go blindly into it," Harry said with a knowing smile. "I've done that too often and you know how those situations end up."
"I'm sorry, Harry, I was so excited and I thought you would be too, I didn't think anything bad could come of it," Hermione said, tears falling down her face. She really did not think that anything bad or wrong could happen.
"I know Mione, I know. That is why I did the thinking for us this once," Harry chuckled as he wiped away a few of her tears. "And I agree with you wholeheartedly. But the point I'm trying to make is that we can't rush into anything, because when we rush we do not see everything there is to be known. Now, what plans you got so far?" Hermione began to blush as they finally caught up with Lupin and Tonks. Her parents were waiting there, talking with the two.
"I'll miss you," Hermione's mother said as she wrapped her daughter in a hug. She did the same to Julie as well. It came as no surprise that she was accepted as well to Hogwarts. Grace had gotten hers as well and the two girls were eagerly talking about what was going to happen to them.
"You take care of my daughter you hear me?" Mister Granger asked Harry. After a few days of talking, Mister Granger had finally relented on his previous stance.
"I couldn't do anything else sir," Harry said, squeezing Hermione's hand as she slipped it back into his. He was surprised by Mrs. Granger, who took him into a hug as well.
"You take care now," Mrs. Granger said as she pulled back. "You keep him safe now." She said with a smile to Hermione.
"She always does," Harry said.
"Can we get going please?" Serge asked, walking in a fine suit. He was going with them, as were the Grangers to see off Julie and Hermione.
"Everyone ready?" Dumbledore said, appearing with a long piece of string. After hearing no objections, he handed one end to Serge and the other to Lupin. "Everyone grasp hold of the string, and you'll find yourself in a secure area of King's Cross."
"Don't worry, it won't be so bad," Harry said with an encouraging smile as he took hold of the string. Hermione took hold of it as well, almost covering Harry's hand with hers. Tonks got awfully close to Lupin as she took hold. The Grangers cautiously took the string in their hands, as did Grace. Within of everyone taking a hold, the Portkey activated and with a tug to the midsection, they landed awkwardly in King's Cross. True to his word, they were not seen by anyone goers.
"Well, let's get moving," Lupin said as everyone straightened themselves. Harry quickly got a few trolleys for them, and placed both his and Hermione's trunks on one as he Serge put Grace's and Julie's on separate one's another. Making their way through the platforms, they finally got to the third pillar between nine and ten. No really talked or said much. It was one of those comfortable silences, and these were the ones that Harry hated the most. Either something horrendous or sad was going to happen at the end of it. In one sense, he was right. There was a sad moment coming up.
"You first Julie," Hermione said once they had reached the pillar.
"What do I do?" She asked, looking around.
"Best if you get a running start and go straight through; here, let me show you," Harry said, still holding onto their trolley. Running forward, he passed through the barrier and onto Platform 9 Three-Quarters. Moving out of the way, he noticed that they still had a reasonable amount of time before the train left. Julie ran through the passage way as well, walking in awe over to Harry. Grace came soon after, followed by Hermione and the rest of the group. As everyone was saying their final goodbyes, Serge motioned for Harry to come over.
"I want you to look out for Grace this year for me," he said with a sad smile. "I know she is going to be a Gryffindor, as is Hermione's sister. I can see it in their eyes, and I want you to look out for them."
"I will," Harry said without hesitating. He had already promised to look out for Julie. Both her and Grace had fast become friends and he figured he would be looking out for both of them anyway.
"I'll be checking in from time to time, but I just wanted to let you know how much this means to me," Serge said.
"Hermione or I will always be looking out for them," Harry said, smiling to himself. He knew that there were only little things kept between the two of them, and the safety of others was not one of those little things.
"I always want you to have these," Serge said, holding a small leather bag. If he did not know better, Harry could have sworn there were marbles in there. "I understand that you know how to use the summons correct?" Harry nodded as he carefully took the bag. Truthfully he barely remembered the advice both Sirius and his father had given him. "Well, let me give you some advice. You can only summon someone once a week. Hermione's summons are in the bag as well."
"Thank you," Harry said, taking the bag and sliding it carefully into his pocket.
"No, thank you again," Serge said ending their conversation as Grace came back to her father for one final goodbye. Smiling to himself, Harry turned and began to roll his and Hermione's trunk to be put onto the train. He stopped as Lupin and Tonks came over.
"Stay safe Harry," Lupin said, giving Harry a manly hug. Tonks had tears in her eyes as she pulled him into a hug.
"You take care, and don't forget to write," Tonks said as she pulled back. Harry smiled at the thought of how motherly that sounded.
"I won't," he said, as he let go. "And you two; please take care. I don't want to lose another three members of my family." Harry watched as Lupin wrapped his arms around Tonks and placed his hands over her stomach.
"We're in good hands, Harry," Tonks said, wiping back one of her tears.
"Keep it that way," Harry said as he climbed aboard the train. Hermione and everyone else were already in, now he just had to find them. Several of the other students had begun to board already, peeking out on of the windows, he saw the Weasleys saying their goodbyes. Sighing, he made his way to find Hermione alone, reading from one of her books she brought with her.
"Where are Grace and Julie?" He asked as he entered.
"I told them to find their own compartment, that way they make their own friends," Hermione said as she moved her feet off the seat. If she was going to be honest with herself, it was because she wanted some alone time with Harry before everyone else came. "Now, come here." She marked her book and closed it. Harry smiled at her and closed the door behind him.
"What do you want angel?" He asked, moving so he was just about leaning over her. "A flower?" His hand went behind his back to bring out a forget-me-not. She giggled as he placed in her hair.
"No," she said, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I want something else."
"What angel?" He asked, leaning in closer.
"A kiss," she said, capturing his lips with her own. A sense of warmth filled her body and her lips massaged his. Opening her eyes slightly, a smile grew on her lips at the glee in his eyes as he deepened the kiss. Moving his arms from above her head, Hermione found herself being lifted off the seat as she desperately tried to pull him closer. She began to play with his hair, feeling his hands rubbing emotionally along her back. A shock ran through her system, causing her to jump slightly, as he slid his had underneath her blouse.
"You animal," she giggled as they broke for air.
"Well then" Harry said, moving his kisses down her jawbone and down her neck. "Let's mark my territory then." He had always wanted to do this, and had never gotten really the nerve up to do it until this point. Being this close to her was intoxicating. Her scent, her wonderful mix of vanilla and strawberries, overpowered him and his senses as he continued his job of `marking his territory.'
Hermione jumped in his arms slightly again. He had never done this to her before, and if he kept doing it, she may not be able to coherently speak for a while. She let out a soft moan as he continued to suck and nibble alternatively.
"If you stop," she said, moaning softly again, "I may just have to hurt you." After another few moments, Harry's face came back into view and he wore a rather large smile. "You done?" She asked, pouting slightly.
"For now," his smile grew as his eyes moved down her neck. Fishing for the mirror Harry had given her out of her pocket Hermione let out a gasp and placed her hand over her mouth, attempting to hold back a giggle. Harry, her boyfriend, the best boyfriend in the world, had given her a rather large hickey. She let out a sigh as she pulled him close. "You're mine."
"No, you're mine," she said, taking his lips in hers once more.
"Yes, angel," Harry said, as he gave her another chaste kiss.
"Ron's on his way," Ginny said, causing them both to fall off the seat. She began to giggle as they disentangled. "You two having fun?"
"You have now idea," Harry said under his breath. He got up off the floor, and helped Hermione stand as well. She kissed his cheek, just as Ron came by. She quickly moved her blouse to cover the hickey.
"I'd like to speak to you two alone please," Ron said. There was no emotion in his voice, making it difficult for Harry to know if he had seen the kiss.
"Well you three better make up," Ginny said, leaving them. Ron closed the compartment door behind him and took a seat opposite of them.
"I really don't know where to begin," Ron said. Harry could tell his friend's eyes were glued to his and Hermione's joined hands. He let out a sigh, and ran a hand through his hair. "This is very difficult for me. I always thought that I was supposed to be with Hermione."
Harry felt Hermione tighten her grip on his hand. "Ron, I really don't think you're the one who decides who is with."
"Well, from all the signs she gave me, I thought she like me too," Ron said, looking at Hermione this time. She was taken back by this.
"When have I ever led you on?" Hermione asked, completely surprised at Ron's accusation.
"You kissed me on the cheek before one of our Quidditch games," Ron said, shrugging his shoulders. "You grabbed my hand in third year."
"Because I was scared that something would happen to Harry," Hermione said, holding his hand tighter at the memory. "And the kiss was a simple friendly one. I meant to give Harry one as well, but he pulled you out of there before I had a chance to. I gave one to Harry after we left our fourth year." Harry blushed at the thought, causing her to smile. "That one had more to it, but with the summer and then the year, I guess you didn't figure that out."
"No, I'm sorry," Harry began to apologize, but she shook her head.
"Doesn't matter, you had a rough year," she said with a smile. "And you Ron, you've always known how much I obsess about Harry. You told me that to my face last summer when we were waiting for him in Grimmauld Place." She blushed at her own admission. "Ron, you've always been like a brother to me."
"I know, but I honestly thought we all could be one big happy family," Ron said, looking down at the floor.
"We are," Harry said, confused. He had always considered the Weasleys's apart of his family.
"No I mean I'd marry Hermione, you'd marry Ginny, and we'd all be Weasleys," Ron said, sheepishly. "I guess dating Hermione would be my way of staying apart of the Trio."
"Ron, you've always been an important part of our lives," Harry said, still confused.
"Name one thing I add to the groups," Ron said, leaning back and crossing his arms.
"Strategy," Hermione said without waiting. "You are a very good strategist, Ron; you've always been that way. Honestly you can come up with a plan for just about anything. You see everything when anyone else would just get boggled down with the small figures; you see the big picture Ron. You also help keep Harry and I up on the ground when either of us gets into our own zones."
"And Ron, we already told you, there is no Trio anymore," Harry said, cautiously. "There are my friends. My closest, you and Hermione. Then Ginny, Luna and Neville. The people who stood beside me at the end of last year. You all are my friends, and I will do everything in my power to protect you all." Ron nodded slowly, thinking for a moment.
"I'm sorry for how I acted over the summer," Ron said. "You're right; You-Know-Who probably all has us on his lists now. Guess the summer training will pay off."
"How did that go?" Harry asked, thankful for an opening to a new topic. "For you I mean?"
"Moody wasn't so bad, just tiresome, I mean he'd work me for hours at a time, never giving me a break, and I'd never make any progress," Ron said. He smiled lightly at a memory, and rubbed his shoulder, where Harry could only guess was a bruise.
"Some days I'd feel like that as well," Harry said with a smirk. "Serge worked me to the bone on some days." They exchanged a nervous chuckle.
"Are you okay with us Ron?" Hermione asked after a few moments of silence.
"Honestly Hermione, I think I am," Ron said giving them a smirk. "I mean, I think it was best that my Mum insisted we come home after the night we talked last. It helped me sort out all of my thoughts and feelings. I guess it's still a shock, but otherwise I'm very happy. Harry, you deserve some happiness."
"Thanks mate," Harry said. "You'll find someone."
"I know, but seeing you two together so soon, and so young, makes me feel like I may never find someone," Ron said leaning back in his seat once more. There was a knock on the compartment door, and Ginny stuck her head in.
"Is everything settled? No more fighting?" Ginny asked.
"We're done," Harry said, looking over at Ron who nodded.
"Good, everything is back to normal," Ginny said, walking in with Luna right behind her. "Mind if we sit here, until the prefect meeting?" Ginny sat next to Ron and Luna next to Harry.
"You're both prefects?" Harry asked, slightly surprised. They nodded as Harry took notice of their badges. "Congrats."
"Will you be okay?" Hermione asked, coming to the same conclusion he had. He would be left alone in the compartment, with his thoughts. A bad combination in her mind.
"Neville will probably come along," Harry said, and almost on cue, Neville walked in. "See. Hey Neville."
"Hi," Neville said awkwardly. "Mind if I come in?"
"Not at all," Hermione said with a smile. Harry put his arm around Hermione at the smile Neville gave her. She was his, and he was hers. If he had to take out an ad to tell the world that, then he would. Hermione kissed his cheek and leaned into him. A sense of comfort came over when he put his arm around her shoulder.
"Are you two going out?" Neville asked as he sat next to Ginny. Harry nodded, staying solemn.
"Don't try anything Neville, Harry is very possessive," Ron said loud enough for them all to hear. "He nearly beat the daylight out of me for asking her out." Ron laughed at this as did Hermione. Harry just nodded, smiling slightly. He was watching Neville who all of a sudden had gotten very uncomfortable in his seat.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean anything by it, I was just saying hello," Neville rambled off. Harry's smile grew, causing everyone else to laugh.
"Relax Neville, Harry won't do anything to out," Hermione said, picking up his other hand. "I've got him on a tight lease." Harry just shrugged his shoulders at the laughter. Ron made a whipping noise, causing the others to laugh.
"I really don't care as long as I get to kiss her senseless," he said with a smirk causing her to blush.
"You're making me sick," Ron said, faking a gagging motion.
"Get over it Ron," Ginny said, laughing at him. Ron remained somber for a moment before shrugging his shoulders. "So, are you two going to be snogging in the middle of the common room?"
"Ginny!" Hermione squealed at her, failing to hold back a blush.
"Where we snog is not of your business," Harry said, putting his arm around her. "Hey Neville how was your summer?"
"Fine," Neville said. "My Gran got me a new wand." Harry spaced out for a moment, feeling something was trying to dig its way through his mind.
"Hello Potter," a voice said. Riddle was attempting to get at him again.
"Bye asshole," Harry said back to it, knowing who it was. Sending the memory of his kiss moments before with Hermione through the link, he heard the screams and shiverings of pain as Riddle trembled.
"So that's about it," Neville said, putting away his wand. Hermione nodded, finding that she was slightly bored. That was until Harry shook his head, resumed smiling, and turned toward Luna.
"How was your summer?" Harry asked. Hermione felt a pang of jealous only to have him render it useless with a short squeeze of her hand. He looked over at with a smile, one that said he would share with her later. She nodded and leaned forward to look at Luna as well as she began to talk about another magical animal Hermione was not sure existed. She explained how she and her father went on a trip to South America, searching for the creature, the name she missed. And through it all, Hermione could tell of some sense of truth to her words, recognizing facts behind some of her ideas, but it still confused and annoyed her more when she talked as if there was actually proof behind her theories. That was the real reason she did not really like the girl, but for Harry, she'd tolerate her.
"We better get going," Ron said, looking at his watch. Harry nodded as they all stood up to leave, including Neville.
"Tell them that Hermione will be there shortly," Harry said. "There is something I need to tell her."
"We still have a few minutes and this shouldn't take long" she agreed. As everyone left, Hermione took a seat again, next to Harry. "What is it, love?"
"I know you were jealous when I looked at Luna," Harry said with a smirk. "But I also want you to know that she is my friend, and only my friend. She has always had her belongings taken from her every year, by students in other houses and her own. Nothing major, but it still shouldn't happen. I'm going to do my best to get her to tell me if anything does go missing. I know you two don't agree on a lot of things, but have you ever given her a real chance, Mione? I'm not saying that all of what she says is true, just there is some fact behind it, and you know that. Every legend has some factual basis."
"I know," Hermione said, crossing her arms. "I know there is some fact behind what she says. She obviously is very intelligent, Harry. But if I didn't know you better I would be jealous. I am still not confident with myself Harry, and deep down I do think you may leave me. I know you never will, but I didn't have a picturesque childhood either. Yes, I had a loving family, but I did not have many friends. You and Ron were my first friends, Harry. And I've always been scared that one day, you'll leave me."
"I'll never," he kissed her lightly on her nose, "ever," on her chin, "ever leave you my angel." He lifted her chin to look at him, seeing the beginnings of tears. Kissing her deeply, he felt her melt slightly in his arms. Keeping her up, he finally pulled back, seeing the tears still in her eyes, but happiness behind them. "I love you, now," he turned her to face the door, "get going." He swatted her bottom lightly, causing her to jump. "Get going, or you will be late." He pointed out the door, her glaring at him.
"I'll get you," Hermione said, attempting to be mad. He just smiled at her and forced her out the door. She could not explain it, but she liked it when he did that, something only he could do, and not all the time, but if it was as playful as that was, she certainly did not mind.
Taking a book out, Harry slowly began to read. He knew if he did in front of Ron, he'd get the third degree, but he only had a few more chapters, and then he could start asking for training in enchantments. He still wanted to create a pendant for Hermione, one to protect her. The book was the most complicated thing he had ever read, and he had already gone through it once.
"You channel Hermione now, Harry?" Ron asked as he came back into the room.
"There is nothing wrong with reading a good book, Ronald," Luna said, walking into the compartment after him. She took the same seat next to Harry as Hermione sat on his other side.
"I agree," Hermione said, linking her arms with Harry. "But the only bad book I can think of is any on Divination."
"The only study were you can guess and still have an equal chance of being right as you do wrong," Luna shook her head. Hermione had a surprised look on her face.
"Harry, switch seats with me," Hermione said standing up. He obliged and moved over, allowing Hermione and Luna to start discussing the faults with Divination and their similar hatred for the class. Harry smirked as he continued to read. Ron finally got frustrated enough with the silence that he left, saying he was going to talk with Seamus and Dean about the upcoming Quidditch season. Ginny never returned, same with Neville.
By the time the candy cart came around, Hermione and Luna were in the deep thralls of an Arithmancy discussion He bought them a great deal of candy, and eventually Ginny returned, causing the three girls to talk about boys. Harry had to smirk as they did; he never saw Hermione as one to gossip, and she did, but the girls were mainly interested with what happened between the two of them of them over the summer. He slowly caught on how clever the girls in the room were, as they all began to help Ginny go on a date with a boy from Ravenclaw, Harry did not know the kid, but really didn't care. If Ginny wanted to date a guy, let her as long as he did not hurt her.
"Thank you for the conversation, Hermione," Luna said, rising from her seat as Ron came back in.
"Where are you going?" Hermione asked, surprised at the reaction of her.
"You four probably want to talk about something private," Luna said with a sad look in her eyes.
"You don't have to leave," Harry said, surprised as well. "There are some things that I need to tell, but I've got to tell them to all of my friends."
"Well then I'll be going," Luna said, dropping her head. Harry grabbed her arm, keeping a light grip on it.
"Luna, you didn't hear me," Harry said, though she didn't look at them.
"I heard you, you said that you had to tell your friends," Luna said. Hermione vaguely heard a sniff, as she saw the young Ravenclaw wipe her eyes.
"Then why aren't you sitting?" Harry asked, causing her to look at him in shock. "You are my friend Luna, and you have just as much right to hear what I'm about to say as Ginny does. So please take your seat." Luna smiled at him, and Harry could not help but smile back. He soon found himself surrounded in a hug. He returned it, looking over at Hermione who simply smiled at him.
Hermione felt a small joy rise in her heart. Harry had once again helped an outcast feel accepted, apart of a group. She knew there was nothing to worry about between him and Luna, nothing she had to worry about. She knew that there was something that would grow, but it was nothing that would threat their relationship. Harry loved her too much, and it was that pleading look filled love that told her he did not want her to be angry with him.
"I've never had too many friends beyond Ginny," Luna said, pulling back from the hug. "Thank you, you have no idea how much this means to me."
"I think I do," Hermione said. She shared a look with Luna, to have her nod.
"What are you all talking about?" Ron asked a confused look upon his face.
"Ron, just realize that there is more to life than Quidditch," Harry said, disengaging from Luna. They both returned to their seats "Now, what I'm about to say, does not leave this room, understand?" Everyone nodded. "The only other person that is allowed to know is Neville and only if he asks about it, do not go telling him anything." He waited for a moment, before taking his wand out. Performing a quick silencing charm, he rested against his seat. "Mione, explain everything up to a certain point please?" Harry pleaded. It still was a sour subject for him to deal with and Hermione was the only one who knew everything just about as well as he did.
"Up until the Prophecy, then I'll continue after," Hermione said. Harry nodded as he closed his eyes, trying to block out the upcoming images. She slowly began to explain everything that happened before Harry went to Dumbledore's home, before she knew what the prophecy was all about. Harry kept trying to fight off the image of Sirius falling, his face a combination of shock and laughter, into the long black veil. "Harry, love, it's time to tell them." He nodded, sitting up again.
"The Prophecy that broke was about me," Harry said, keeping his eyes closed. "I met with the person who witnessed the prophecy and was told what it was." He shook his head, trying to keep the memories of the night after the attack upon the Ministry of Magic. The night when Dumbledore told him about the Prophecy. "THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD APPROACHES….BORN TO THOSE WHO HAVE THRICE DEFIED HIM, BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES…AND THE DARK LORD WILL MARK HIM AS HIS EQUAL, BUT HE WILL HAVE THE POWER THE DARK LORD KNOWS NOT… AND EITHER MUST DIE AT THE HAND OF THE OTHER FOR NEITH CAN LIVE WHILE THE OTHER SURVIVES….THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD WILL BE BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES…." He paused, trying to keep back his own tears as he bay. He let everyone come to their own conclusions as they waited. "If you haven't guessed, I'll tell you now. I am destined to fight Riddle, and die or kill him. That is how the final battle will end."
"No, it can't be, no," Ginny said, shaking her head. Ron put an arm around her and pulled her into a hug. Harry could see the tears coming down both of their eyes. Putting an arm around both Hermione and Luna, he brought them close, feeling their tears falling against his shirt.
Hermione looked up at him, with a smile. She was beginning to recognize the type of care Harry had for Luna, much like Ron had for Ginny. Although Harry did not know it, she did, and maybe Luna did, but all that mattered was that Harry would protect Luna just about as vehemently as Ron did for Ginny, as she did for Julie. He now had his family.
It was a little later when Luna had finally calmed down that she pulled out of Harry's chest, a smile on her face. "Sorry," she said.
"Don't be, Luna," Harry said as Hermione gave another smile to Luna.
"Just don't expect to be in that position a great deal," Hermione said, wrapping her arms around Harry and holding onto his tightly.
"I have a question," Luna said, laughing lightly at Hermione's statement. "Will we be trained?" Harry nodded.
"DA will continue this year, as well as next year," Harry said. "I will be speaking with Dumbledore about it after that. I want the students to be as prepared as possible for the upcoming war."
"So you're running it again?" Ron asked. Harry nodded, but pointed to Hermione.
"She'll be in helping me a great deal as well," Harry said, causing Hermione to blush and turn into his chest. "Comfy?" She nodded as he vaguely heard a sigh.
"You two really do make a great couple," Luna said, a dreamy look returning to her face.
"Thank you," Harry said as the train began to slow down. "Well, it looks like we better get going."
"You haven't changed into your uniform yet," Ron said confused as Hermione stood up, helping Harry off the seat.
"Well, lets fix that," Harry said. He smirked as he raised his hand, placing it at the top of his shirt. He found the spell to transfigure clothing, he learned it while studying with Hermione, and brought his hand down the front of his shirt, letting his magic flow outward.
Hermione watched Harry use his magic before, but never without words. Before her eyes, his clothes began to change into the Hogwarts uniform much like the one Ron was wearing. The only difference really was Ron's prefect pin. She also saw him stumble slightly.
"What a rush," Harry said, bringing his hand up to his head as the room began to spin.
"How did you do that?" Ron asked as Hermione caught Harry's arm. He straightened up and smiled at them, with a twinkle in his eyes.
"Magic," Harry said, truthfully. Hermione put a hand over her mouth, trying to hide some of her giggles. He looked way too much like Dumbledore at that moment.
"No seriously how did you do that?" Ron asked again as Harry opened the door, holding it for them. The train had stopped now, and he could see Grace and Julie talking with a boy with black hair. He smiled; they certainly were safe at the moment.
"Magic," Harry said again. "Right this way, ladies." He motioned for Ginny, Luna and Hermione to leave. And promptly all three of them blushed.
"Such a gentlemen," Ginny said, patting his head as she went by. She giggled as he smiled at her.
"Thank you," Luna said, still holding her dreamy look, but blushing all the same.
"Don't even think about taking him girls," Hermione said, wrapping her arms around Harry. "He's mine."
"Yes ma'am," Harry said, kissing her head. "You coming Ron?"
"You going to explain how that was done?" Ron asked with a smirk in return.
"I told you, magic," Harry said. "Now, you all are supposed to be helping the first years. Why aren't you doing your job?" He laughed as Ginny and Luna took off, Ron trailing behind. "Go on love, you've got work to do."
"But what about you?" She asked, clinging to him. She really did not want to leave him alone longer than he needed to be. She hated being from his gaze, where she knew she was safe and loved.
"I'll be right beside you," Harry said, picking up her hand. "Now let's get you to work." Walking together, for the first time, Harry realized that Malfoy had not bothered them during the ride. If this was a bad thing, he did not know; what he did know was that it could not be good.
-->